Blended Learning Key Considerations

By: Justin Ferriman • August 12, 2015
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blended-learningBlended learning is everywhere, so much so that many people don’t even realize that they are taking part in blended learning programs.

By definition, a blended learning program is learning that mixes both traditional in-person training along with some digital components.

In the K-12 space this often means students taking parts of their courses online and continuing coursework (or exercises) in the classroom. What’s nice about this approach is that it affords instructors the opportunity to use classroom time for practical application of the lesson’s key concepts.

This site is no stranger to blended learning – it’s a topic that I have written about quite a few times actually. The benefits of using a blended learning program are well documented.

There can never be just one ‘reason’ that explains why it’s successful, but from a general standpoint I think it works because today our lives take place both online and in-person. Blended learning coincides with how we live our everyday lives.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re an educator or working in the corporate sector, using blended learning is a great strategy for teaching and training.

If you’re interested in getting started with this learning approach, consider the path (originally proposed by Speexx) below:

Implementing Blended Learning

Prepare – Let learners know that you will be implementing the program. Capture their feedback and thoughts as to what they believe will make it successful.

Manage Change – As you begin using a blended program, constantly ask for feedback as to what is working and what is not working. You will need to make adjustments over time so that it has a positive impact.

Customize – There is not a one-size-fits-all approach to such programs. You’ll want to make sure you know your audience and tailor the program to their personality, habits, and background.

Embrace Mobile – The digital portion of blended learning isn’t only on a computer, it also incorporates mobile devices. Make sure that your program is mobile friendly.

Align – Make sure that you align your program with the overall business or classroom objectives. The last thing you want is the program to be a distraction and hinder learning.

Justin Ferriman

Justin started LearnDash, the WordPress LMS trusted by Fortune 500 companies, major universities, training organizations, and entrepreneurs worldwide. He is currently founder & CEO of GapScout. Justin’s Homepage | GapScout | Twitter