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What is blended learning?

Blended Learning is a combination of different learning methods, techniques and resources from different sources [Financial Regulation Forum associates] and applying them in an interactively meaningful learning environment to build capacity. Learners and their institutions have access to different learning resources in order to apply the knowledge and skills they learn under the support of a mentor or tutor on or offsite. With today’s prevalence of high technology in many countries, blended learning often refers specifically to the provision or use of resources which combine the innovative educational technologies of e-learning (electronic) with other educational resources and supported with forums; e-mentoring or e-tutoring; and onsite expert resources. These arrangements combine an electronic learning component with some form of human interaction.

Heinze and Procter have developed the following definition for blended learning in higher education:

Blended learning is learning that is facilitated by the effective combination of different modes of delivery, models of teaching and styles of learning, and is based on transparent communication amongst all parties involved with a course.

Blended learning gives learners and tutors an environment to learn and teach more effectively. Learners can select the best activities to suit their own pace, learning style and level, as well as time and place. Learners can be more independent and self-reliant in their own learning. They can also be more able to take decisions, think creatively and critically, investigate and explore as well as solve problems they face in learning and real life.

Some of the advantages of blended learning include: cost effectiveness for both the learning institution and the learner; wider availability of education for specialised niches; wider accessibility to education; an alternative to residential courses if time, cost and distance are problematic for all those who need to gain knowledge; and flexibility in scheduling and time-tabling of study. Some of the disadvantages may include:  limited knowledge in the use of technology; study skills; and problems which are similar to those who would be entering a physical learning institution.

Blended learning increases the options for greater quality and quantity of human interaction in a learning environment. Blended learning offers learners the opportunity “to be both together and apart.” A community of learners can interact at any time, through a forum, and anywhere because of the benefits that computer-mediated educational tools provide. Blended learning provides a ‘good’ mix of technologies and interactions, resulting in a socially supported, constructive, learning experience; this is especially significant given the profound affect that it could have on distance learning.

Blended learning is sometimes referred to as “hybrid learning” or “mixed learning”.

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