What is blended learning?

The concept of “blended learning” (German: “mixed learning”) has been around for several decades, but it has only become established in recent years. Blended learning concepts are now being used in schools, universities and workplaces all over the world. But what is the official meaning of blended learning, what are the benefits of blended learning, and is it something you should incorporate into your business or life?

What is blended learning?

Blended learning is part of a new wave of hybridization, which combines traditional methods with a high-tech approach, which earned him the alternative name “hybrid learning.” It is perhaps best used in connection with the hybrid work understand, which we have all become very familiar with in recent years.
Just like hybrid working high-tech online systems (including Flexopus desk sharing software) combines with a traditional workplace, blended learning gives employees access to interactive online systems without abolishing the traditional classroom.

Blended learning is often associated with school classes. A good example of this is courses in which students are taught using traditional methods and at the same time have access to interactive tests, games and instructional videos via tablets and computers. However, the possible uses go far beyond the classroom. Many companies use blended learning to train their employees and ensure they are familiar with the latest industry regulations and best practices.

Blended learning is...

• an education system that traditional learning and elearning combines
• useful for schools, universities and undertakings
• embossed by different models
• increasingly popular as educators are looking for greater efficiency striving
• beneficial both for pupils as well as for instructors

4 blended learning examples

There are actually more than 4 types of blended learning, but there are typically 4 that people focus on in particular, including:

1. The flipped classroom concept

As the name suggests, the flipped classroom concept reverses the traditional learning structure. Employees start the learning process remotely using online courses, webinars, video conferences, and online discussions, among other things. They then take part in courses where they can discuss what they have learned and complete exercises to consolidate what they have learned.

2. The rotational model

The rotational model takes up aspects of all blended learning concepts and combines them to provide a comprehensive learning experience. For example, you can start learning in person before moving on to classroom learning and then online courses. The rotation can take place according to a specific schedule or be based on employee development.

3. The face-to-face driver model

The model of personal learning comes closest to traditional learning and connects employees directly with trainers, often via video conferencing software. Because it is an individualized approach, it is more stressful for trainers and more beneficial for employees, making it ideal for employees who are lagging behind or who need the type of fast-track courses that personalized learning can provide.

4. The flexible model

The Flex model takes a more flexible approach to blended learning by allowing employees to set the timeline. They have access to online education systems and personal support and can use them as needed. If they prefer a single approach, whether it's because they're finding they're learning more or simply because it's easier to fit that into their schedule, they can dedicate more of their time to that aspect. As a result, they learn faster and with less resistance.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Blended Learning

What are the benefits of blended learning? Are there also disadvantages? Well, that question isn't that easy to answer. It depends largely on whether you approach the issue from the perspective of an employee or an employer, as well as on the type of model you use.
Broadly speaking, these are the main advantages and disadvantages of blended learning:

Advantages:

• Combines the best of traditional learning and e-learning
• Addresses the needs of employees who might have difficulties in a traditional learning environment
• It can be tailored to the needs of employees and adapted to the organization's goals
• Combines various learning strategies (including visual and auditory) to improve knowledge retention
• Reduces the company's training costs
• Encourages feedback on training courses, making it easier to adapt courses
• Enables employees to learn at their own pace
• Offers a certain amount of flexibility for everyone involved

Disadvantages:

• It can be harder to organize than traditional education programs
• There may be technical issues that interrupt employee progress
• There is less social interaction, which is Prevent the team from growing together Can.

How you as an employer can promote blended learning

There are clearly more benefits of blended learning than disadvantages. So once you've decided it's a good fit for your company, how do you convince your employees to get involved?

Here are a few tips that can help you do just that:

• Take a step-by-step approach and gradually introduce them to the concept.
• Make e-learning available to them and let them decide when they want to use it.
• Encourage employees who use e-learning to to talk about their experiences.
• Listen to every criticism and use it to adapt your systems and overall concept.
• Help your employees use the software and meet their schedules
• Provide IT assistance when needed.