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Innovative learning project: Mathematics lessons of the future start now!
Find out how PH Heidelberg is developing innovative learning environments for mathematics students, funded by 369,000 euros.
Innovative learning project: Mathematics lessons of the future start now!
On April 22, 2025, the research project “Freiraum 2025 – HyFlexMath” was presented at the Heidelberg University of Education. Under the direction of Dr. Christian Spannagel, Professor of Mathematics Didactics, the project aims to create an innovative learning environment for teacher training students. This learning environment is intended to enable students to participate flexibly and successfully in mathematics courses. The Innovation in University Teaching Foundation is funding the project with around 369,000 euros over a period of two years.
The planned measures include the didactic conception of a new teaching concept and the development of appropriate learning materials. In addition, a technical platform will be implemented that enables students to follow lessons both in person and online. The evaluation of this deployment takes place directly with the affected students.
Innovative teaching formats
The project takes the approach of combining different teaching formats. These include the Inverted Classroom Model, the HyFlex Model and Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs). In the inverted classroom, students comment on recorded lectures and prepare independently for face-to-face meetings. These meetings in the lecture hall then serve to discuss content and solve problems together.
The HyFlex model makes it possible to follow face-to-face events both on site and online. These hybrid formats include recording of sessions to support online participation. The project also addresses the challenges associated with mathematical collaboration in online environments, such as inequality of access.
To support HyFlex teaching, the University of Windsor has more than 20 classrooms equipped with live streaming capabilities. There are also 15 mobile HyFlex units available, which enable students to choose between on-site and online participation. Information and resources about HyFlex classrooms can be found on the University of Windsor website.
Evaluation and challenges
The project in Heidelberg is testing the new learning platform in a mathematics course for primary school teachers with around 150 students. Moderation is carried out by tutors who accompany the development and use of the platform. The results of this evaluation will be documented and made available to the public.
Nevertheless, the HyFlex doctrine also brings with it challenges that are referred to as the hybridity ditch. This divide separates on-site students from those who attend online. The main problems include the uneven availability of technologies, motivation problems due to the lack of physical presence and difficult interaction between students and teachers. Teachers are required to adapt their strategies to meet the different needs of both groups and achieve common learning outcomes.
Overall, the “Freiraum 2025 – HyFlexMath” project shows how modern technologies and innovative teaching approaches can be combined to create a flexible and interactive learning environment that meets today's requirements. The challenge, however, is to ensure that all students, regardless of their chosen participation model, receive the best possible learning experience.
For further information on HyFlex teaching, see the resources University of Windsor helpful. Detailed explanations of challenges and solutions are provided on the website TU Darmstadt provided.