Blended
Overview
Blended learning is the integration of classroom learning with elearning. For example, an instructor might use the classroom to present critical concepts, and then use an online discussion forum to encourage student dialogue around the concept. Or, an online course might meet in a classroom or a lab to practice skills.
Elearning is a tool...just like classroom learning. The intent of blended learning is to select the tool that is most suitable for a particular learning task. An instructor can then combine elearning and classroom learning to improve student learning.
| Debate often rages on the effectiveness of classroom learning vs. online learning. This misses the point entirely. Some aspects of online learning are more effective than classroom learning...and vice versa. Blended learning takes the best of both worlds and creates an improved learning experience for the student. |
Resources
Using
a Web-Based Course Management Tool to Support Face-to-Face Instruction
Good introductory article on blended learning (thought it uses the term
adjunct mode).
'Hybrid'
Teaching Seeks to End the Divide Between Traditional and Online Instruction
Hybrid/adjunct/blended...any more terms?!? Article focuses on how colleges
use blended learning to reduce costs and meet student needs.
Enriching
the Traditional Music Classroom Through Internet-based Technologies
"In recent years, distance learning via the Internet has received
a great deal of attention. Students may take courses or even complete
entire degree programs online. While this new paradigm is revolutionizing
higher education, much instruction still takes place in traditional face-to-face
classroom settings. I have been exploring ways of enriching the traditional
classroom environment by using common components of the distance learning
model."
Blended
or Integrated e-Learning?
"The e-learning environment is no different from any other new technology
area, with new ideas and phrases appearing on an increasingly rapid basis.
The term '"blended learning" became popular in the year 2000.
Blended learning is the mixing and integration of different learning delivery
approaches including classroom and e-learning to create a single learning
programme. Unlike earlier concepts where e-learning and classroom were
seen as mutually exclusive, blended learning is seen as the AND model
rather than the OR model. It is about using the best of all worlds to
create the strongest integrated offering. It combines the power and effectiveness
of the classroom with the flexibility and any-time nature of e-learning
and allows learning to be more tailored and more individual, whilst at
the same time allowing greater reach and distributed delivery."
Blended
Learning Case Study
"Recipe for blended learning: Start with a few online tutorials,
add one synchronous event and a pinch of discussion forums for flavor,
and stir."
Blended
Learning Models
"The term blended learning is used to describe a solution that combines
several different delivery methods, such as collaboration software, Web-based
courses, EPSS, and knowledge management practices. Blended learning also
is used to describe learning that mixes various event-based activities,
including face-to-face classrooms, live e-learning, and self-paced learning."
Blended
Learning Design - 5 Key Ingredients
Useful article (.pdf) on various principles of design for blended environments.
All links verified June 2005.
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