Hybrid/ Blended Learning

What is blended/ hybrid learning?

Blended or hybrid learning combines face- to- face learning with online learning. Studies prove that hybrid offers a better academic experience than pure brick-and-mortar classes or online-only courses.  I have never done any online courses before; as a result, I am unable to relate from a personal standpoint. However, from reading literatures on hybrid learning, I gain adequate insight to write this blog.

Based on information gathered about hybrid, I think it has its place in today’s society. Stanley, L. (2007) believes that blended learning has the potential to increase the learner’s understanding and application of new skills by leveraging rich, interactive learning content while controlling training costs. Online learning applications, has the ability to take advantage of a wide range of Web resources, including not only multimedia but also Web-based applications and new collaboration technologies. Some examples are blogging, wikis, SMS messaging, video conferencing, chat, discussion forums among many others. These technology tools enable students to stay connected and share their work online and receive feedback from instructor and peers.

If my organization comes to me for advice on the offering hybrid courses I would tell them that they should offer it. This is because hybrid learning has the potential to bridge the gap between a pure face- to- face and online learning by providing students with the requisite technological skills to transition to a 100% online course.  A word of wisdom for any faculty who is planning on offering a hybrid course is to make sure potential students are aware that a portion of the course will be taught online, while the other portion will be done face- to- face, and to inform them of their expectations. Faculty is also required to plan rich and meaningful learning experiences for learners to be engaged and empowered rather than just to upload materials on the web which will detract learning and have no bearing on students’ involvement.

Additionally, a word of wisdom for a student who is planning on pursuing a hybrid course is to make sure that he/ she has good time management skills, be proactive in his or her approach, and be willing to collaborate with peers and provide feedback when necessary.