Abstract
The technological boom of recent decades has significantly impacted global education. To maintain educational standards at the highest level, new teaching tools utilizing online resources are emerging. Particularly in application-based education, various modern solutions for laboratory experiments are developing, including virtual and remote options. However, such digital elements should be effectively integrated into the existing curriculum and combined with hands-on tasks to enhance overall learning outcomes. A standardized pedagogical model for the didactic realization of digital laboratories has yet to be established. This paper presents a hybrid concept for the fundamentals of electrical engineering labs. The aim is to develop a flexible learning environment that progressively introduces students to the complexity of the course content. A blended learning approach is implemented, combining online preparatory and follow-up phases with traditional in-person execution. It thus provides learners with comprehensive theoretical knowledge along with critical practical and future skills necessary in modern academic and work settings. To achieve this, the physical lab context was expanded via a learning platform, based on the findings of a preliminary evaluation of modern students' needs. Laboratory experiments were digitized, with consideration to both didactic and technical aspects. The developed content was structured into a learning pathway, consisting of gamified video tutorials, single-choice quizzes, and online experiments. The network and server structure were designed with the objective of providing flexibility, expandability, and open access learning. To facilitate the maintenance and organization of other services, an information management dashboard has been developed. The initial results confirm strong student engagement, enhanced lab preparation, and overall comprehension, as well as the potential for time- and location-independent learning. The developed concept is a student-centered, user-friendly, cost-effective, adaptable, and scalable solution. It can serve as a framework for the hybridization of other laboratory courses, setting a new standard for engineering education.