Implementation of hybrid chemistry labs as a learning strategy in post-COVID times

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted educational systems worldwide. During confinement educators were forced to make drastic changes in their teaching dynamics, where online resources were used to replace face-to-face activities and interactions. Due to an increase in vaccination rates schools are gradually re-opening, this led to the following question: How can we design and implement a chemistry lab-based course that could incorporate in-person and at-home students simultaneously? The aim of this study was to compare the effect of a hybrid chemistry lab (HL) to a virtual chemistry lab approach (VL) in students learning, engagement, and the development of essential competencies in engineering. The didactic intervention was conducted during the spring semester of 2021, where 220 students from 10 different branches of engineering were assessed. The HL class was divided into 2 groups: students who took the course remotely, and students who attended the laboratory to carry out face-to-face experiments. Four different protocols that consider hands-on experiments were included in both groups. The experiments were modified to be completed at home using simple, non-dangerous, and readily available materials. Results were compared and analyzed in python (v3.8.0), where a p < 0.05 value was considered statistically significant. Results shows that HL groups obtained higher grades and a greater understanding of the material; additionally, the development of competencies improved by 15%. The majority agreed that the course contributed to improve their skills regarding applied chemistry in the lab. Students considered they actively participated in practical work and interacted with people applying class contents. The HL allowed students to achieve competencies sought out for in this chemistry course. The use of hybrid models offers flexibility in the learning process while allowing students to be prepared for future challenges in the post-COVID era.