Key prerequisites for implementing online and hybrid teaching

A functional and secure e-learning environment cannot exist without an appropriate digital infrastructure, which includes all the technical components necessary for conducting online and hybrid classes.

This includes servers, network resources/HEI internet connection, cloud services, wireless internet access within the HEI building, security protocols, communication and collaboration tools, digital educational services (ISVU, online library access), as well as learning management systems and videoconferencing systems. The institution must ensure that the infrastructure is scalable, reliable and accessible to all users, teachers and students, regardless of their physical location.

Equally important is the issue of software tool licensing. Educational institutions should provide licensed and updated versions of teaching tools (e.g. Microsoft Office 365, Adobe Creative Cloud, text authentication programs, e-testing systems) to enable legal and safe use of technology. Open tools can also play an important role, but it is necessary to provide support for their implementation.

In addition to commercial ones, there are also open-source solutions that are free to license, but the institution must provide certain funds for servers and equipment, as well as for paying IT professionals who will install and maintain them after installation (e.g. Moodle, BigBlueButton, JitsiMeet, Koha, etc.).

Quality infrastructure and licensed tools create the foundation for reliable teaching, data protection and a high level of user experience.

Examples of activities

• HEI installs a local Moodle server and connects it to BigBlueButton for integrated synchronous and asynchronous teaching (since these are open-source software solutions, licensing is free).
• HEI purchases multi-user licenses for MATLAB software, which are distributed to students via the student portal with secure activation and use of AAI@EduHr electronic identities.