A hybrid learning environment refers to the "best of breed" use of a range of technologies and pedagogies to provide 21st century learning.
The term, given the Maori term "Te Hononga" was developed by Ken Pullar and Howard Baldwin in 2004, based on their experiences and research with the OtagoNet Online Community and Knowledge Building Community. Howard Baldwin, the first e-Principal in New Zealand, is now a Senior Advisior in the Ministry of Education in Wellington. Ken Pullar is presently the OtagoNet e-Principal.
Te Hononga uses regionally based video-conferencing, a learning management system, text-messaging, user forums, traditional text resources and some face-to-face contact to support learner centred education. It is New Zealand's most comprehensive on-line learning collaboration.
OtagoNet was established in 2002 and comprises eleven rural high schools scattered throughout Otago. The province of Otago is situated in the lower South Island of New Zealand.