5 Tips for Starting a Blended Learning Program

By: Justin Ferriman • May 1, 2017
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There is a lot of talk today about blended learning and the benefits it can have in both a classroom and corporate setting.

Most people know that they should use blended learning strategies but if you have never implemented a blended learning program you may not know how to start.

Looking into blended learning techniques online will likely make you feel overwhelmed. There are so many software tools available, which his great, but also confusing.

Do you invest in fancy technology first? How do you implemented a blended learning approach leveraging mobile devices if you don’t have some sense of the technology? What are the best ways to implement the blended learning program so that you achieve maximum buy-in from learners?

These are all valid questions, and it certainly is good if you are thinking about them. However, you don’t need to have all the answers right from the beginning.

If you are just starting out then here are five ways to begin blending :

  1. Start with easy technology. While the tech-tools available to us are great, some are easier than others. Choose the tools that require the least amount of technical “know-how”. If it is intuitive then usage will increase.
  2. Start small. You don’t need to revamp your entire course to accommodate blended learning. Use it in small ways initially and ramp up as you get more comfortable with it.
  3. Adapt based on feedback. As you implement the blended learning approach in your classroom, solicit feedback from learners and make adjustments accordingly. The success of the program comes down to participation. Don’t force something that isn’t working.
  4. Focus on collaboration. Blended learning works best when there is a strong emphasis on collaboration. Make sure that the tools you use encourage digital collaboration in a variety of ways (chat, groups, forums, etc.)
  5. Scale when ready. After you have blended small parts of your curriculum with success, it’s time to flip your classroom. Turn lectures into online micro-content with videos and infographics. Use class time for active learning and exercises.

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