Blended learning is an effective educational approach that works for many course topics or programs that need in-person sessions. It uses a hybrid approach that combines in-person and online instruction, providing both instructors and learners with improved flexibility, engagement, and learning outcomes. 

In this article, we cover what blended learning is, its advantages, and how you can implement it with LearnDash LMS. 

The blended learning model 

Blended learning is used in various environments, from corporate training to higher education to certification training. It’s implemented in many different ways. For example, you could offer pre-recorded videos and short quizzes in a virtual setting while longer assignments and discussions take place in-person. Alternatively, you could hold in-person lectures and have everything else online. 

Many course creators will rely on a learning management system (LMS) to help them deliver digital content like presentations, assignments, videos, and more. This content can be more self-paced, while traditional instruction happens on a set schedule. It’s completely up to the course creator – that’s one of the key benefits of choosing this model! 

Advantages of blended learning 

Instructors and educators choose blended learning because it diversifies the performance metrics used to assess learner progress. According to a recent study on blended learning effects, these performance metrics can include improved participation, communication, knowledge and skills, and performance before and after learners experience a combination of in-person and online. 

This model allows instructors to better assess learner progress so they can focus on performance and take full advantage of the additional benefits offered. Let’s explore those key benefits.  

Time efficiency 

Instructors can save time by automating tasks, including feedback, quizzes, and grading. They can also share content when it’s convenient instead of waiting for the next in-person session. 

This educational approach also helps learners get things done on their own schedule. They can take lessons, assignments, and other course content at their own pace. 

Flexibility 

In some courses, learners and instructors may benefit from fully in-person or digital instruction, but blended learning provides flexibility for all. Learners can easily access course materials, learn around their schedule, and access different media. This flexibility means learners can access materials at any time and do what helps them learn best.

Instructors also benefit from the flexibility of this teaching style. They can choose what materials they want to create and share, what in-person learning focuses on, and so much more.  

Improved learning experience 

All students learn in different ways. Blended learning appeals to more learners because it offers different ways to learn and engage, including various formats, media, and activities. 

For example, a hybrid learning course could offer in-person group activities to give learners face-to-face interaction. That same course could have pre-recorded video lessons and live Q&A sessions on a virtual platform. 

Better learning outcomes 

Learning outcomes are better when a course offers efficiency, flexibility, and a strong learning experience. Blended learning does this and more, ultimately leading to higher learner engagement and motivation. Learners will be more likely to participate, retain the information, and complete the course at a higher rate. 

Implement blended learning with LearnDash LMS 

You know what blended learning is and its advantages, but how do you implement it? Fortunately, LearnDash LMS has a solution. 

Blended learning feature overview 

With this feature in LearnDash, course creators can integrate virtual and in-person elements into their curriculum. Instructors can do the following:

• Mark a lesson as virtual or in-person 
• Customize attendance requirements for each lesson
• Track student attendance directly in their profiles

Educators in traditional or higher education settings can set up asynchronous lessons while requiring in-person sessions, which are ideal for testing, presentations, and active participation. This feature will also benefit instructors who: 

• Offer certifications through their online courses 
• Need to meet government requirements 
• Have regulatory reasons for in-person exams 

How to use the blended learning feature  

To start using this feature, navigate to LearnDash from the WordPress admin dashboard. Select Lessons, Topics, or Quizzes (you can choose any of these) and find the individual content you want to enable the feature on. 

Next, go to the Settings Tab and scroll down to the Access Settings section. Toggle the External Lesson/Topic/Quiz to ON. You will have several options to choose from: 

• Type: Select Virtual if the lesson takes place in a virtual setting like Zoom. Select In-Person if the step takes place in-person. 
• Require Attendance: Select Yes if attendance is required or No if it is not required. 

Once you’ve configured these settings, you can start with blended learning! And after implementing this hybrid approach in your curriculum, you can further engage learners with note taking, gamification, reviews and feedback, and notifications. 

Improve course outcomes with blended learning 

Blended learning is an effective, innovative way to approach learning. It makes courses more engaging, leading to better learning outcomes and experiences. Launch the blended learning feature today to add in-person exams and classroom-based learning to your LearnDash course.

And if you’re new to LearnDash, you can try it out and the blended learning feature in the demo!