Reflecting on a First-Year Sociology Module’S Transition to Hybrid, Hyflex Teaching and Learning Practices: A Case Study

The adverse of the Covid-19 pandemic have changed life as “normal,” forcing rapid transitions in our everyday life. As a result, the higher education sector was confronted with the transition from traditional contact to online teaching and learning. This transition created havoc for academic staff and students when the transition forced them to examine their pedagogy and strategies for merging the use of technology into their teaching and learning. However, this shift to online learning and teaching was challenging and slow for third world countries due to their many economic challenges. It is for this reason that this study reflects on the transition process and challenges of academic staff from traditional contact to online teaching and learning. The study focuses on the SOCY 121 module during and post-Covid-19 pandemic.

The study is guided by the Replacement, Amplification and Transformation (RAT) model used to examine the implementation and use of technology in the transition from contact to online teaching and learning by students and academic staff teaching the SOCY 121 module. The study using qualitative approach will use document analysis examined the SOCY 121 study guide, NWU policies, and the Efundi LMS tool used by the University. It will also use in-depth interviews and focus group discussions. The study is on-going and is part of the NWU SOTL.