Blended learning can be an incredible experience for both learners and mentors alike, helping you scale your learning efforts while improving learning outcomes. Blended learning is increasingly becoming the norm in traditional classrooms.
Blended learning is not limited to K–12 or higher education. It also extends to corporate training, offering the ability to combine the best aspects of in-person and online learning. This approach provides flexibility, accessibility, and engagement, making it ideal for corporate training programs and launching an online course business. The corporate training market is projected to reach significant growth, reflecting the increasing adoption of blended learning strategies in the business world.
What is Blended Learning?
Blended learning is an instructional strategy that combines traditional training with online learning—whether through chat rooms on the internet, asynchronous and synchronous learning, or other project-based learning.
The intensity and attention of a live classroom setting are combined with the adaptability and accessibility of eLearning to create blended learning, which combines the best elements of traditional learning.
Blended learning can be used to
Activity level blending
when the same learning task is completed both online and in person.
Blending at the course level
Using both online and in-person resources in a course.
Program-level blending
This type of blending takes place throughout a period of course, however, it might not happen in particular classes or activities.
Types of Blended Learning
The different types of blended learning are
Flipped Model
The usual room training is reversed under the flipped paradigm. Outside of the room, learners often first come into contact with the training content through texts, online modules, or video lectures. Following that, training time is devoted to discussions, group projects, exercises, and active learning activities that strengthen and apply the previously taught subject.
The flipped paradigm gives learners the freedom to learn at their own pace and enables more individualized and interactive instruction during in-person sessions.
Face-to-face driver model
Since the majority of the training is conducted in a room environment under the supervision of an instructor, the face-to-face driver blended learning approach is the most similar to conventional room instruction. This method provides learners who are having trouble understanding the new material or who are lagging behind the training schedule with individualized, tailored support.
Rotational model
Learners alternate between various learning modes, including in-person instruction, online exercises, small-group discussions, and individual study, under the rotating approach. These rotations may follow a set timetable (daily, weekly, etc.) or be contingent on the advancement of the learners. It provides flexibility and accommodates different learning styles, enabling staff members to work in the modality that best meets their requirements at a given moment.
Flex model
Learners have a great deal of autonomy and choice over their learning path thanks to the flex model. It blends virtual learning with on-site assistance as required. When using an adaptive learning platform, learners can access online resources and content at any time and from any location, which makes it ideal for self-paced learning. When needed, trainers are on hand to help learners navigate the content and resolve any difficulties.
Enriched virtual model
The enriched virtual model is mostly an online course with sporadic in-person instruction. The majority of learning takes place virtually, but for practical exercises, tests, and group projects, learners attend in-person classes or workshops at prearranged times.
This methodology ensures that learners receive both customized instruction and opportunities for group engagement by fusing the flexibility of online learning with the advantages of in-person connection.
Benefits of Blended Learning
These are some of the benefits of blended learning
Flexibility
Asynchronous learning allows learners to complete their coursework at their own pace and from the comfort of their homes. For those who have other responsibilities to balance (like a parent who works a job), this can help make learning possible.
Accessibility
Because blended learning allows learners to go at their own pace, it may be more convenient for a variety of learning styles.
Environmentally friendly
No need for training rooms, power, or heating/cooling systems. Online training is economical and environmentally beneficial.
Scalable
Blended learning is scalable as well. You could create a single online discussion group for all three of your introductory classes, for instance.
Simpler than ever
eLearning technology is improving fast and becoming more widely available.
Blended Learning Examples
Example 1
Employees participate in in-person workshops while training materials, quizzes, and discussion forums are available on an online learning management system to enhance their understanding and engagement.
Example 2
Trainers introduce new concepts during in-person sessions and then assign online tasks and interactive activities to reinforce learning, allowing employees to review lessons and complete assignments at their own pace.
Example 3
Corporate trainees participate in hands-on workshops and seminars, supplemented by online training modules and video tutorials that provide additional information and practice exercises.
Example 4
Language learners practice speaking and listening skills during in-person classes while using an online platform for grammar exercises, vocabulary drills, and peer-to-peer conversations through chat and video calls.
Example 5
Employees gain practical experience through on-the-job training and simulations, with access to online resources such as industry journals, case studies, and virtual interactions to support their learning.
Use Cases of Blended Learning in 2024
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Boeing faced specific training hurdles, notably with their capture team leader (CTL) training for sales teams. To overcome these challenges, they launched eight web-based training lessons in a virtual environment, offering foundational knowledge and tools.
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This preparation was followed by a four-day live course, providing direct interaction with experienced CTLs, resulting in highly successful outcomes for the participants.
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Intel Corporation implemented a blended learning approach to ensure their technicians' proficiency with complex equipment. This approach included digital simulations, scenarios, and interactive exercises, enhancing retention rates across various locations. The performer-centric model integrated training projects into regular duties, using experiential and self-paced learning, supported by collaborative and instructor-led models.
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This method provided personalized feedback, anytime access to resources, real-time peer interaction, gamified learning, adaptive progress, practical project training, and effective employee progress management through an LMS.
Conclusion
Blended learning combines traditional training with online learning, offering flexibility and customization. Disprz LXP can enhance learning experiences through personalized feedback, anytime access to resources, and real-time peer interaction. Book a demo to see how Disprz can elevate your training programs.
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