8.2 What is Blended Learning?
Growth of Blended Learning
Definitions of blended learning range from
- So broad that practically any learning experience that integrates some use of educational technology might qualify
- Others that focus on a specific percentage combination of online curriculum and instruction in a face-to-face setting
A National Education Association (NEA) Policy Brief on Online Learning states
- "...blended learning (aka "hybrid" and "mixed-mode") is an environment in which
- a student learns in a "blended" model of face-to-face instruction with a licensed teacher and technology-based instruction that best meets the educational needs of the student.
- During the technology-based instruction, under the guidance of the teacher, the student has control over the time, place, path and/or the pace of the curriculum to form an integrated instructional approach.
Blended learning offers the possibility to significantly change how teachers and administrators view online learning in the face-to-face setting.
- "The widespread adoption and availability of digital learning technologies has led to increased levels of integration of computer mediated instructional elements into the traditional f2f [face-to-face] learning experience," write Bonk and Graham, in the Handbook of Blended Learning.
- Blending may be at the course level, combining both online and non-online instruction within one subject.
Adapted from Watson, John. PROMISING PRACTICES IN ONLINE LEARNING, Blending Learning: The Convergence of Online and Face-to-Face Education, Evergreen Consulting Associates.