VU Mixed Classroom for remote education

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

 

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VU Quality ambitions for online education