Enhancing inclusivity, engagement, and scalability: Assessing the hybrid-flexible model satisfaction in higher education context

ABSTRACT Background: The Hybrid-Flexible (HyFlex) learning model combines face-to-face instruction with online options, offering flexibility and personalized learning. Assessing faculty and student satisfaction is crucial for successful implementation, especially in multidisciplinary education, where adaptability is essential. Limited research has evaluated HyFlex’s real-world application at the University of Sharjah (UoS). Methods: A cross-sectional study at UoS evaluated satisfaction with HyFlex learning in the colleges of Medicine, Health Sciences, Humanities, and Sciences. Online questionnaires were distributed to faculty ( n = 101) and students ( n = 781) participating in HyFlex classes between December 2023 and January 2024. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and nonparametric tests, whereas qualitative data from open-ended questions underwent content analysis. Results: Among students, 40.7% were from the Arts and Humanities, Law, and Sharia, and 62.9% were female. Whilst 72.5% rated their HyFlex experience as excellent, the faculty were less positive, with 37.6% rating it good and 29.7% rating it poor. Student satisfaction varied significantly across programmes and genders. Faculty reported challenges with student engagement, unclear policies, and insufficient technological support. Students appreciated the model’s flexibility but identified technical issues and a need for more interactive online sessions. Conclusion: HyFlex learning offers flexibility and accessibility, particularly for students managing multiple commitments. However, engagement challenges, technology limitations, and unclear policies hinder faculty satisfaction. To enhance HyFlex’s effectiveness and sustainability at the UoS, it is recommended that interactive teaching methods be adopted, policies strengthened, technological support improved, and supportive learning environments fostered. This recommendation could have vital implications, potentially increasing students’ satisfaction and enhancing learning.