First Smart Learning Hub
Dubai, UAE, August 26, 2020 – In a milestone achievement marking 18 years of innovation and leadership as the first smart learning hub in the UAE and the Arab world, Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University (HBMSU) has announced the launch of a pioneering “Blended Delivery Model.” This first-of-its-kind initiative signals a new era in higher education through the adoption of advanced technological innovations and aligns with the UAE’s national efforts to ensure the continuity and resilience of education in a rapidly evolving global landscape.
HBMSU confirmed that it will welcome learners for the Fall 2020 semester under a renewed academic framework based on a fully integrated and balanced 100 percent smart learning model across all bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral programs. This initiative reinforces the university’s role as a key driver in reimagining the future of education and building an innovative learning ecosystem that transforms students into globally competitive innovators, rather than passive recipients of knowledge. The model directly supports the objectives of the UAE Vision 2021 National Agenda.
Blended Delivery Model
The newly introduced Blended Delivery Model integrates synchronous and asynchronous learning within a fully smart and balanced framework designed to enhance learning outcomes for future innovators and creators. Synchronous learning is delivered through live virtual classrooms and forms a foundational element in balancing academic requirements with professional and personal commitments in a structured and timely manner. Asynchronous learning, on the other hand, enables continuous interaction between learners and faculty members, allowing real-time access to learning materials, updates, and academic support without the limitations of time or location.
Under the model, asynchronous learning accounts for 50 percent of classroom time, allowing learners and instructors to collaborate, exchange resources, and engage academically at their convenience. The remaining 50 percent is dedicated to synchronous learning, where real-time lectures and sessions are conducted according to a defined timetable. These sessions employ creative and intelligent teaching methodologies aimed at empowering future generations to lead comprehensive and sustainable development initiatives.
Dr. Mansoor Al Awar, Chancellor of HBMSU, highlighted the UAE’s significant achievements in ensuring the continuity of education and business operations, even amid the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. He attributed this success to the forward-looking vision of the nation’s leadership and its sustained investment in advanced technological infrastructure across key sectors, including education. Dr. Al Awar emphasized that HBMSU’s long-standing commitment to smart learning has proven instrumental in maintaining uninterrupted educational delivery during the global crisis.
Smart Learning Model
“The launch of this advanced, fully blended smart learning model is the result of nearly two decades of proactive efforts,” Dr. Al Awar said. “These efforts are reflected in our achievements in reshaping the future of higher education based on three core pillars: innovation, disruption, and transformation. Our progress aligns with the directives of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and President of HBMSU, who has consistently emphasized the importance of harnessing technological innovation to strengthen learning foundations. And promote a culture of smart and lifelong learning as a cornerstone for educational continuity in times of rapid change.”
He further noted that, as the first accredited smart university in the UAE, HBMSU continues to play a pivotal role in advancing equitable and inclusive education by offering lifelong learning opportunities for all. The university remains committed to redefining traditional educational models through the effective use of modern technology, restructuring the roles of learners and faculty, and optimizing curricula and learning environments to nurture innovators, knowledge ambassadors, decision-makers, and future leaders.
Fully Intelligent Framework
Dr. Al Awar concluded by expressing confidence in the new model, describing it as a foundation for sustainable learning under both normal and emergency conditions. “This fully intelligent framework is designed to meet learners’ needs anytime and anywhere,” he said. “Our journey does not stop here. We will continue advancing education by leveraging the technological and information revolution. HBMSU is fully prepared for the next fifty-years, empowering generations that are scientifically, cognitively, and technologically capable, driven by ambition, resilience, and a belief that no challenge is insurmountable.”
Blended Delivery Model
The Blended Delivery Model is built on a diverse range of learning techniques focused on delivering digitized content and educational materials that actively engage learners and enhance their skills and competencies. The model ensures that learning outcomes are achieved through effective instructional design, supportive learning elements, and personalized digital content, enabling seamless access to educational resources anytime and anywhere.
Synchronous Learning
Synchronous learning will be conducted through advanced virtual classrooms that utilize a wide array of interactive features, including audio and video communication, screen and file sharing, individual and group discussions, webinars, instant messaging, video conferencing, interactive storytelling, and multimedia applications. These tools are designed to deliver a high-quality, collaborative learning experience that fosters peer engagement and active participation.
Asynchronous Learning
Asynchronous learning will be supported through a comprehensive suite of tools, including email, file-sharing platforms, discussion forums, blogs, and e-wallets. Learners will also benefit from advanced resources such as podcasts, recorded lectures, presentations, simulations, and educational games, ensuring a rich, interactive, and highly engaging learning experience.
