Exploring Intangible Barriers and Challenges in Adopting Hybrid Education System in Pakistan

With the changing landscape of educational paradigms, the emergence of Hybrid education system provides promising results and is used by educational institutions all over the world especially after COVID- 19. In Pakistan, the adoption of Hybrid mode not only faced physical obstructions but also non-physical challenges. This study digs in to find the intangible barriers such as cultural obstructions, stagnant perceptions and lack of digital trust by people which increasingly obstructs the integration of hybrid mode. Using interview method and thematic analysis to analyze qualitative data, this study explores the barriers in adoption of hybrid mode in public and private universities in Pakistan with a sample size of 12 students. Findings revealed that students considered lack of teachers training, fixed mindset of students and teachers, lack of resources, reluctance to use hybrid mode by students and teachers and inclination towards traditional mode as the major barriers. Moreover, if hybrid mode has to sustain in Pakistan, a change in thinking and a complete perception shift of people is required. This study yields significant results and has implications for students, faculty of educational institutions and policy makers of educational institutions and can be helpful in decision making process of educational sector.