Hybrid Model for Tutorial Engagement

Technology has increasingly become a key component of teaching and learning, particularly with the rapid shift to delivery through online platforms as a result of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. In 2020–2022, students who studied online often struggled to achieve key learning outcomes and receive lower marks than their on-campus peers, demonstrating reduced engagement in an online environment. A shared concern identified within the School of Architecture, Design, and Planning at the University of Sydney, was the ability to deliver a sense of physical experience to students who are studying online. This paper details our proposed solution to improve engagement in online tutorials through a "Hybrid Model" that: leverages rapidly advancing virtual reality technology; integrates the fundamental principles of gamification and incorporates experiential learning into the learning process. These three key areas are further supported by a recommended tutorial structure or time proportion model. The manuscript presents the developed theoretical hybrid model informed by existing literature and studies; and illustrates this theory by examples of practical implementation and initial proof-of-concept studies. The manuscript further discusses future research that will focus on in-depth user studies and rigorous evaluation of the approach.