The future of education is becoming more volatile and more unpredictable.
Experts believe that the rapid changes in education will be felt well into the future; just how much - may not be known for years.
In the past months, many schools have had to dramatically shift how they deliver education and adopt alternative methods.
Blended learning has over the years evolved and even ensured that the education system remains open so that learning can continue through any kind of disruption.
What is Blended Learning?
Blended learning - is a combination of face-to-face and remote online teaching - a new approach adopted by several institutions to build resilience in the education system in the post-Covid-19 world. It integrates technology and digital media with traditional classroom instructional methods. Sometimes also referred to as ‘hybrid’ learning, it offers learners the best of both worlds.
For the younger K-12 children it simply implies a combination of the traditional classroom method of instruction blended with digital tools and platforms to enhance the learning experience.
Let’s look at a few evident benefits of blended learning.
1. Adaptability
It prepares students, teachers, and parents for a situation where schools could switch quickly and seamlessly from one mode of learning to another in the event of any disruption. Blended learning creates an environment where adaptability is needed to succeed—for both teacher and student.
2. Flexibility
Along with face to face it also enables the student to access the materials from anywhere at any time. Self-pacing for slow or quick learners reduces stress, increases satisfaction, and information retention.
Blended learning not only encourages independence, but also empowers students with a sense of control over their time, place, and pace of learning. This is an important aspect of self-learning and lifelong learning.
This aspect of flexibility is not only an advantage for students, but a huge advantage for parents and teachers as well.
3. Boosts Efficiency and Engagement
According to research, blended learning has the proven potential to enhance both the effectiveness and efficiency of meaningful learning experiences.
Blended teaching allows for engaging digital learning and activities that are colourful, interactive, personalized and – honestly – more fun than a worksheet.
4. Prepares the students for the future
While you might watch your child navigate Youtube with ease and have your phone passcode on the tip of his tongue, focusing that kind of aptitude towards an educational approach can work wonders.
Blended learning equips students with technological soft skills which they need to live and work in an interconnected and tech driven world.
To sum it up, blended learning has come to the rescue of students, parents, and teachers, and is here to stay. It is wise to look beyond COVID-19 and embrace blended learning, not only in schools but also at home as we prepare our students and equip them to succeed now and in the future.