ORGANIZING HYBRID TEACHING FOR INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS IN MIXED ACADEMIC GROUPS: CHALLENGES AND CHALLENGE-SOLVING STRATEGIES

Abstract

During the COVID-19 pandemic, distance learning emerged as the primary method for accessing knowledge, leading to the rapid development of online learning platforms by educational institutions. Russiaʼs full-scale invasion of Ukraine further exacerbated disruptions to the countryʼs education system. At I. Horbachevsky Ternopil National Medical University, distance learning relies on the MS Teams platform and the educational and scientific resources provided by the #StandWithUkraine project. Currently, the University adopts a blended learning format known as “synchronous hybrid learning”, where students attending in person are joined by their classmates remotely online.

This article examines the challenges faced in organizing education at the International Students’ Faculty during the academic year 2022–2023, and details TNMUʼs experience in working with combined online/offline academic groups of international students. Conducting classes in a blended format presented certain difficulties. Teachers had to adapt their teaching strategies, learning materials, and assessment methods, while also grappling with the task of maintaining equal engagement between in-person and remote students, as well as facilitating meaningful interaction among them. Some considerations and tips for optimizing teaching in mixed groups of international students are presented.