From Purdue.edu: Nathan Mentzer, a professor of technology and engineering education in Purdue Polytechnic, and his research team have been awarded the Steps to Leaps in Faculty Research award for their work on the Interactive Synchronous HyFlex model, an innovative approach to classroom flexibility that has impacted thousands of Purdue students.
The Steps to Leaps Awards recognize faculty, staff, and students who exemplify core pillars of student well-being, leadership, and growth. Mentzer’s team includes Abdul Moeed Asad, a research assistant in Purdue Polytechnic; Laskhmy Mohandas, a software design lecturer in the EPICS program; Adrie Koehler, an associate professor in the College of Education’s learning design and technology program; and Elnara Mammadova, a graduate research assistant in Purdue Polytechnic.
The award-winning research, refined over four years with funding from the National Science Foundation, has helped nearly 5,000 students by allowing them to attend classes either in person or remotely. By removing barriers such as geographic constraints, rigid schedules, and accessibility challenges, the model supports students managing health issues, disabilities, jobs, or caregiving responsibilities.
Beyond implementation at Purdue, the team has compiled their insights into an upcoming e-book that features illustrations, examples, and practical guidance for educators looking to integrate the HyFlex model into their own teaching.
About Steps to Leaps
Steps to Leaps is a collaborative, campus-wide effort focused on enhancing and promoting holistic well-being. Steps to Leaps focuses on the key pillar areas of well-being, leadership, impact, building networks and grit/persistence. Steps to Leaps was created by students for students and today engages many segments of campus to help students flourish and become their best selves.