Hybrid or Virtual? Two Students Discuss Which Is Better, Safer

Quincy Palmateer and Kathryn Ward, Staff Writers

With the school year almost halfway through (sort of) students and staff had to adjust to a brand new hybrid schedule due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Many students had looked forward to the new school year, with new classes, seeing friends again and feeling a sense of normalcy. But with the Coronavirus pandemic remaining a force to be reckoned with, it continues to take a toll on learning, and the chance of in-person learning becomes more slim as we head into the winter season. 

 

As the temperatures began to drop, it seemed like the cases around us began to soar, and with the 3 week shutdown around Thanksgiving break, more and more students were switching to an all virtual learning environment. Is that the better way for students to learn? Or are the decisions more health based? With both of us now all virtual, one once utilizing the hybrid model, we break down what the pros and cons are with hybrid and virtual models during these unprecedented times.

 

One of the options that was given to us this past summer was an entirely virtual model. Even though only about a handful of Haddonfield students chose to take part in the entirely virtual option at the beginning, there are many reasons why one might choose to do so, especially with the holiday season fast approaching. The most obvious reason is that staying home limits any possible exposure to COVID-19, for many, this is the main reason for choosing to stay virtual. Throughout the first few months of school I have found other pros of the entirely virtual option. A big advantage that I have appreciated is the flexibility of being able to do whatever I need or want to do, when I normally would have a study hall. If I have work that I need to do for other classes I can do that, if I do not, then I can watch Netflix, go on a bike ride, or even have an extended lunch break to take a break from not only schoolwork and assignments but also from screens. With the seasons changing, it has been nice to avoid bundling up and have to brace the cold to go into school, and be able to attend class from the comfort of my own home. I also think that is why many more students had made the decision to go virtual, as they want to keep their family members, and possibly more of their relatives safe for a healthy holiday season. 

 

 Although it has been nice being home and with family, it has been hard not being able to see friends or relatives, especially since the holiday season is in full swing. This school year has brought about many challenges, not only to the students but to our faculty as well. Staff have to contend with adjustments to learning including how to manage technological issues, finding new ways to keep students interacting and engaged with curriculum and their peers, and Google Meets, where many teach to tiny boxes or letters instead of students. That is why hybrid was a nice transition from a long 6 months of quarantine. You didn’t have to go to school for long, pack a lunch, and could see some of your friends and teachers in person! The teachers and administrators have done an amazing job to make sure that the school year is as safe and smooth as possible!