Blended Learning; what is it and why do we need it?

What is blended learning?
Blended learning is a concept used in education to describe a program of learning that combines face to face learning with computer technology. The majority of the program is still delivered face to face with a teacher in a classroom (as with more traditional methods), but in addition blended learning recognizes the benefits of delivering some aspects of an educational program through technology. This can enhance the learning experience and improve learning outcomes.
You can picture blended learning a little like making a smoothie! The fruits you add (bananas, strawberries etc.) represent the individual items of a program (face-to-face classes, text books, media, online activities, apps etc.) Blended together, it tastes even better and provides more nutrition!
So, what does blended learning look like in a classroom? Here are some example tasks you might see:
Examples of blended learning
· Teachers use online media e.g. Ted Talks or You Tube in class, along with educational activities e.g. discussing opinions, writing summaries about the media etc.
· Creating an online blog or a website e.g. a tourist guide to the city
· Using online software to complete activities e.g. matching vocabulary and definitions
· Using tablets or mobile devices in class to do some research for a project e.g. creating a presentation about the local culture
Why blended learning?
Blended learning is beneficial in today’s modern classroom because it allows learning to be more personalized and with much easier access. It means you can tailor the learning experience for each learner, while offering more flexibility in learning modes and times and increasing motivation.
1. Personalization:
Using technology in an educational program means you can tailor the content to match individual learning styles. Usually as a leaner you have a personalized log in and can select the specific activities you wish to focus on. For example, you might select more listening activities because this is your weakest skill, however another learner might log in to the same program but mainly work on the vocabulary activities. This allows you to tailor your program to what you need, making it personal per learner.
There is also a wealth of global resources available for teachers to use as part of the face to face classroom experience. Using media or technology in the classroom means that teachers can also further personalize the learning experience, as they can select which material to use depending on the learners needs and preferences.
2. Increased autonomy:
Being able to control what, when and where you learn gives you more control of your learning. This can increase learner autonomy and make you a more independent language user. Therefore, when you go out into the real world, you are more confident and aware of how to use the language. This control also gives you more self-drive as a learner with a higher sense of responsibility, which can help you develop the ability to find the resources and support you need so you can reach your leaning goals.
3. Increased access:
Blended learning allows a leaner to choose when, for how long, where and on what device they study. Learners in the 21st century need more flexibility in their programs; a culture which has been driven by social, cultural, economic and political changes. Having flexibility of when and for how long a learner accesses the program is essential in today’s efficient world, especially for professional adults and university students who need to fit learning in around their busy lives.
4. Study at your own pace:
Having access to online programs and apps means that a program can be accessed 24/7. This means that you can study at your own pace and allows the time you need in order to fully comprehend, complete and review tasks. It also means you are studying when suits you best, which will also enable optimal learning.
5. Increased feedback:
The use of technology allows for improved ability to rapidly analyze and review a leaners’ language, so feedback can be given on the work completed. This informs the teacher who can then tailor their teaching methods and feedback for each student, while improving time efficiency. This feedback also informs the learner, who is therefore more aware of their ability and allows them to make more informed choices on their leaning needs. In some blended learning activities, feedback is given instantaneously making feedback very efficient.
6. Face to face input:
Regardless of the advantages of technologies in an educational program, the value of a face to face class should not be underestimated. It’s important to recognize that the teacher led, classroom based element to blended learning is still the main part of the program. Teachers and classmates provide valuable personalized input, as well as adding a social element and authenticity to the learning process. These classes largely focus on language production, giving learners opportunity to focus on communication and receive feedback from their peers and the teacher.
7. Improved learning outcomes:
As a learner you have more control over the time, pace, path and place of the program which increases your motivation to learn. You have more time to complete the tasks and complete them in the best conditions suited to you. All of these, in turn, allows for more focused learning to take place and therefore improved learning outcomes.
Everybody learns differently and educational methods should reflect this, designing programs that reach every different learning style. With more integration of technologies, combined with the face to face classroom experience, we are able to improve teaching, information, engagement, autonomy and enjoyment. Blended learning allows us to continuously adapt to learners’ needs and preferences, embracing the needs of 21st century learner.