The term blended learning has evolved over the years. It started referring to a combination of face-to-face and online leaning and today it reflects combinations of traditional face-to-face learning with contemporary learning approaches enabled by digital technologies and delivered online.
Face-to-face learning is delivered in a classroom, training facility or at a workplace.
Online learning is a virtual classroom that uses a learning management system and video conferencing technologies where course work is conducted, and assignments and tests can be submitted via the internet.
Benefits of Blended Learning
Blended learning is gaining popularity due to its benefits; according to NCVER research published in February 2022 61.8% of RTOs intend to use more blended online and face-to-face learning in the future. We outline the benefits below:
Flexibility
Vasi Doncheva, Manager Learning Design & Technology at Chisholm says,
“Blended learning has been around for a while, but it has gained new meaning and popularity in the last couple of years. Initially blended learning was a combination or a blend of face-to face classes and web based or online learning. Today the blend has evolved to a combination of different modalities such as in person, online, remote and hybrid. That has enabled and empowered learners to be in the driver’s seat of their experience and engage with learning the best way that suits their needs and circumstances.”
The combination of in-person learning and remote and online learning gives employees and employers more options to undertake workplace training. Blended learning allows workers to complete the training at their pace and access course content online while also having access to a trainer for face-to-face or remote support if required.
Depending on the course, the blended learning will offer variety and flexibility but also make the most sense to effectively conduct training . For example, the theoretical component of a course could be best presented online in media rich, interactive resources and virtual tutorials, which students can access anytime and anywhere on demand, while the practical application will be best suited to in person at work or in a workshop training environment.
Improved learning outcomes
Vasi says, “Research and practice confirm that learners achieve better when they are engaged and there are less berries to their learning. Blended learning reduces barriers and improves learner engagement by providing learners with more choice and flexibility in when, where and how they learn.”
Builds digital literacy of workers
Digital skills are becoming necessary across all industries. 87% of jobs in Australia will require digital literacy skills by 2025 and by 2034, technology will augment 4.5 million Australian workers.
“Digital literacy has become functional literacy we all need to engage with work and life on a daily basis. Blended learning exposes learners to variety of digital technologies and provides them with the opportunity to develop the skill and literacies they need to succeed in the workplace.” Vasi says.
The opportunity to undertake professional development has a supplementary advantage, firstly learning the course topic content and secondly allowing digital literacy and skills improvement.
It helps to build upon their existing digital skills and exposes them to technological advances in training by using an online learning management system and introducing them to other online tools.
Increased engagement
The social aspect of face-to-face learning cannot be beaten. Classroom and on-site learning interaction is cheerful and engaging which will strengthen the learning experience for workers. It is also an opportunity to meet new people and grow professional networks.
Advances in technology allow blended learning to come very close to replicating in-person experiences. Virtual learning incorporates video conference engagement with peers and trainers. There are also multiple collaboration tools that increase interactivity virtually to replicate the traditional classroom experience, for example, gaming, polling, interactive whiteboards and breakout rooms.
"As we have discovered during and post the pandemic social interactions don’t have to be limited to in person experiences governed by time and space. Current and emerging technologies enable social, intentional and meaningful engagement and collaboration beyond the limits of time and space. Learners can communicate, collaborate and create together virtually in real time or asynchronously.” Vasi says
Like to know more?
Contact a Chisholm Industry Specialist to discuss how blended learning solutions can benefit your business and employees.
