A hybrid way of learning: Blended Learning

Hi there! Such a long time! In this post I would like to comment upon Blended Learning. It is an approach to teaching and learning which combines face-to-face classroom learning and online instruction, creating a more integrated approach for both teachers and learners. Blended learning courses are characterised by students attending traditional lessons and also carrying out tasks at home via Internet - thus, technology plays a more significant role in this approach to learning. In this way, students will have chances of learning both inside and outside the school.

The ultimate aim of blended learning is to provide opportunities for students to work both collaboratively (with teachers and their fellow students), and independently.

Blended Learning

Some advantages of blended learning are:

-it gives more possibilities for students to decide when, where and how they are going to learn. I consider this a benefit as not only is it more appealing and motivating for students, but it also offers opportunities for improving their time management skills,

-in case explanations provided by the teacher are not clear enough, students can make use of the virtual platform, and find further material so as to enhance their understanding of the topic dealt with,

-it caters for different learning styles and multiple intelligences,

-it gives more room for learner autonomy. Even though teachers could suggest some links or articles, it is the learner who has the final choice when it comes to expressing their viewpoints as regards a given topic,

-teachers can keep track of their students´ progress in a more detailed way,

-it is more in keeping with current needs for developing critical thinking in order to promote active participation in all areas of their lives,

-learners can develop necessary skills for making use of the Internet and computer technology.

On the other hand, there are some drawbacks as well:

-strong dependence on technical resources and internet connection,

-sometimes either teachers or students (or both) may expect the teacher/student to be always available for him/her at any time of the day to provide instant responses and feedback.

In my experience, during my teaching training course, we have been used to working with blended learning, which I find more than useful. We have worked with two education platforms (Edmodo and Moodle) in which not only have we downloaded information, but we have also had opportunities to speak our minds and share links, text, and information relevant for the course. I must acknowledge that it is demanding and time-consuming, but immensely rewarding. Have you ever had a teacher who has adopted this approach to teaching and learning? 

Here I post this video that will provide you with further information about this way of learning: