Abstract:

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the widespread adoption of Hybrid-Flexible (HyFlex) learning models in higher education. Despite that, a comprehensive understanding of how learning space design, technology integration, and pedagogy interact to influence student engagement remains limited. This systematic review, guided by the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, synthesizes empirical evidence from 40 studies published between 2018 and 2025, selected from 1,008 initially identified papers across multiple databases. Using a convergent integrated synthesis approach informed by the Pedagogy-Space-Technology framework and affordance theory, we examined how HyFlex environments shape engagement outcomes. Findings indicate that thoughtfully designed HyFlex environments enhance student engagement through high-quality audio systems, flexible furniture enabling rapid reconfiguration, activity-centered pedagogical design, and strong instructor presence across modalities. Interactive technology tools and student-centered approaches were consistently associated with higher engagement and satisfaction. However, significant challenges emerged, these include digital equity gaps, increased instructor cognitive load, and a persistent affective engagement gap where remote participants reported lower social and emotional engagement than in-person peers, even when conceptual learning outcomes achieved parity. Engagement gains varied by discipline, with hands-on fields presenting particular implementation challenges. The evidence suggests that HyFlex benefits are contingent upon intentional alignment of space, technology, and pedagogy; robust institutional support systems; and proactive attention to equity. These findings provide evidence-based guidance for institutions designing post-pandemic learning environments and emphasize that technology and space investments produce engagement benefits only when guided by clear pedagogical intentions and supported by adequate faculty development and technical infrastructure.

Keywords:

Learning space, hyflex design, student engagement, technology integration, hybrid-classroom.