Blended Learning

Blended Learning is combining multiple learning components and learning events to create a meaningful learning. Blending various learning strategies and approaches for flexibility with blended learning . It is origin of the term in the USA.

—  Alternative names:

◦       mixed learning

◦       hybrid learning

◦       blended e-learning

◦       ”melted learning” (in Finnish)

Blended learning is a term increasingly used to describe the way e-learning is being combined with traditional classroom methods and independent study to create a new, hybrid teaching methodology.

A blended learning model in three parts

—  In-person classroom activities facilitated by a trained educator.

—  Online learning materials, often including pre-recorded lectures given by that same instructor.

—  Structured independent study time guided by the material in the lectures and skills developed during the classroom experience.

Components of Blended Learning

1. Synchronous Physical/Face-to-Face Components (not limited to)

—  Face-to-face Tutoring

—  Coaching or Mentoring Sessions

—  Classroom

—  Workshops

—  Conferences

—  Meetings

—  Labs

2. Synchronous Electronic Components (not  limited to)

—  Internet conferencing

—  Audio Conferencing (i.e., phone conferencing)

—  Live Video via satellite or Videoconferencing

—  Virtual Online Classroom

—  Instant Messaging

3.  Asynchronous Components (not limited to)

—  On-line self-paced Learning Content (Web pages)

—  E-mail, Discussion Forums

—  EPSS (Electronic Support Systems) & Job Aids

—  Web/Computer-Based instruction

—  Books

—  Articles

—  CD-ROM

—  Audio (disc/tape)

—  Video (disc/tape)

—  White papers

—  Archived Live Events