Blended learning combines traditional face-to-face classroom methods with more modern online approaches in a way that allows students to learn both online and offline, using the best aspects of each method. This relatively new model of education has several potential benefits over solely online or in-person instructional approaches.
One key benefit of blended learning is flexibility and individualization. By blending online and in-person learning, students are able to choose when and where they access online content and resources. This allows them to learn at their own pace and according to their individual schedules. Students who need to review material can do so online at their convenience instead of having to wait for the next classroom lesson. They also have more freedom to learn in different environments that suit their learning styles, such as at home or in the library in addition to the traditional classroom.
Blended models also leverage technology to offer students additional learning tools and resources that allow them to access engaging multimedia content, interactive lessons, self-assessments, and individualized feedback. Well-designed blended programs can differentiate instruction based on student needs and performance data, identifying areas where students need additional support or enrichment. Students are able to spend more time on those focus areas through targeted online activities. This level of tailored, data-driven instruction would be very difficult to achieve with only face-to-face teaching.
Research has found that the blended approach may lead to improved student engagement and motivation. By incorporating digital tools and online learning components, students are exposed to material in a more interactive way that holds their attention. They are able to access information in multiple modalities like video and games in addition to traditional textbook-based learning. This variety in instructional methods keeps students mentally engaged and interested in their studies. The flexibility of blended models also allows students to learn in ways that match their interests and strengths. All of these aspects can increase student enthusiasm for learning.
Blended learning has been shown to positively impact academic achievement as well. Multiple meta-analyses that reviewed the effects of blended models compared to solely online or face-to-face classes found blended students consistently outperformed their traditionally-taught peers. This is likely due to a combination of the individualized practice and feedback online tools provide as well as the benefits of face-to-face teaching including immediate guidance from an instructor. When used appropriately to enhance – rather than replace – classroom instruction, blended approaches may foster deeper learning and understanding.
Blended learning can reduce absence issues since students have the ability to access content online if they miss class. This reduces learning loss that might otherwise occur from absence. Blended environments also allow for “flipped classroom” approaches where students watch lecture videos before class, then spend class time on more engaging applied activities like projects and discussions. Some research indicates this mode of instruction may lead students to perform better on conceptual understanding tests since class is used for higher-order tasks rather than passive content delivery.
From an instructor standpoint, blended learning offers advantages as well. Teachers are able to spend more class time engaged in interactive discussions, activities and one-on-one support rather than lecturing. They have data on student performance and areas of struggle from the online system to guide face-to-face lessons. Online tools also allow automated grading of assessments freeing up time for more personalized attention. Teachers can create engaging multimedia lessons once that can be reused with different classes, requiring less overall planning time. Blended models may alleviate classroom space and resource constraints since online work can be done anywhere with an internet connection.
From a financial viewpoint, blended approaches are potentially cost-effective compared to building additional physical classroom space or hiring extra teachers for growing enrollments since class sizes may be increased with some learning done remotely. The upfront and ongoing costs of online courseware may be offset by longer term facility and staffing budget savings. For students, blended programs open up access to advanced courses that might not otherwise be offered at their schools due to low demand.
Blending online and in-person learning offers students a highly customized education experience with engaging digital resources that research indicates leads to better outcomes. For teachers and schools, blended models provide data-driven instructional tools alongside the benefits of face-to-face interaction in a way that could have long term cost and efficiency advantages over traditional instructional formats. When thoughtfully designed and implemented, the blended learning approach maximizes the upsides of both digital and physical learning environments.