The VU Mixed Classroom Educational Model is an educational approach that builds upon differences to enrich the learning experience for all students present. This does not mean compromising between different perspectives or merging them into one uniform perspective. Instead, we use the differences and possible tension between perspectives to stimulate critical thinking, develop analytical skills, and generate creative solutions. Want to know how? Read on!

On this page, you'll find more information about the three phases of the VU Mixed Classroom Educational model. In the video below, the concept is explained. We also have added some learning activities for inspiration or to use as a starting point for your own lectures and tutorials per phase in the tabs below.

At the bottom of the page you'll find more in-depth information about the Educational Model.

We distinguish between the following phases, taking place in the classroom:

Phase 1:
Sensitizing students to their own frame of reference and the existing diversity in the classroom, and creating a safe learning environment to do so

Phase 2:
Engaging students to interact constructively with different perspectives present in the classroom

Phase 3:
Optimizing every students’ learning process by capitalizing on different perspectives present in the classroom

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Sensitizing to diversity

During phase 1, the emphasis is on two main themes: sensitizing students to their own frame of reference and to the existing diversity in the group, and creating a safe and inclusive learning environment to do so. Central questions you as a teacher can have during this phase are: How do I create an inclusive learning environment online? How can I invite students to share their perspectives in an online classroom? How can I stimulate students to examine their own frame of reference? How do I frame diversity in a positive way? How do I feel safe, being the teacher?

Practical examples on how to do this online for Phase 1

Interaction with perspectives

One of the main goals in phase 2 is that students learn how to interact with perspectives other than their own. This involves keeping an open mind for other points of view, approaches to learning, or experiences. Questions central to this phase for teachers can be: How do I get my students to collaborate constructively online? How can they deal with unease and tension in an online setting? How do I teach my students to keep an open mind for other approaches and perspectives? How do I keep the learning environment safe and inclusive while interaction takes place in break out rooms?

Practical examples on how to do this online for Phase 2

Integration

During phase 3, the focus is on the integration and combination of different perspectives or approaches to stimulate critical thinking, cognitive flexibility and creative problem solving. Central questions during this phase are: How do I make sure all students learn from different perspectives? How do I guide online group collaborations in such a way that students truly capitalize on their differences? How can I help my students to make explicit what they learn from each other?

Practical examples on how to do this online for Phase 3

Want to know more?

VU Quality ambitions for online education