Our students are living and learning online; how can we make it great for them? Blend Their Learning!

By Toula Jacobson (REMC 16) and Anne Thorp, PhD. (REMC 7)

What is blended learning?
A blended, or hybrid course combines digital and traditional content to extend and enhance classroom activities in the face-to-face classroom using digital components.
Implementing a learning management system such as Moodle or Blackboard allows teachers to quickly and effectively add a blended instruction approach through using technology and online elements to further support discussions, projects, creativity, as well as maintain more individual focus.

What makes an effective blended learning experience for students?
Quality blended instruction integrates elements from traditional lessons with elements from online tools such as wikis, forums, sites, animation creators, as well as allows the capability for students and teachers to connect and interact with content specialists or professionals in the field in which they are studying. These online connections can take place in real time, instantly, and as needed in order for the lesson to progress to a new height. Examples of these include connecting students to real world events, activities, and conversations as they happen. Additionally, bringing online components to lessons encourages the development of lesson assignments that support original and creative thinking on the part of the student. These connections for students open worldwide options rather than being limited to a book in a library or a neighbor who may specialize in a topic of study. 

What are benefits to implementing a blended learning program?
The United States Department of Education reported "students who took all or part of their instruction online performed better, on average, than those taking the same course through face-to-face instruction. Further, those who took "blended" courses -- those that combine elements of online learning and face-to-face instruction -- appeared to do best of all" (June 2009).

Blended learning programs allow teachers to design lessons as flexible learning tools through integrating multiple means of representation, expression, and engagement, which leads to meeting multiple needs of learners. Blended environments allow teachers and students to present materials in formats from written, to visual, to hands on assuring that every student is engaged in a way that best fits their learning needs.
Students experience 21st Century skills through learning to collaborate, taking responsibility for their own learning, becoming more self-directed, as well as have interesting and engaging learning experiences. Amy Fanter in "The Future of Instructional Models" stated,  "...some of the most important educational benefits are how hybrid courses help improve writing and computer skills. In addition, hybrid classes also encourage self-directed learning, time management, problem solving, and critical-thinking skills in those who participate in the programs" (Worldwide Learn 2009).

How can I learn more?
To learn more, participants can take an online course to get the experience of blended/online instruction. This is an effective way to experience online tools and to learn skills that are necessary to be successful in an online environment.

Contact your ISD/RESA/ESA or REMC to learn the options they offer to support the implementation of blended learning. These agencies have worked together to provide professional development opportunities in these areas.

Examples of options for preparing teachers for 21st Century instruction include the free LearnPort (http://learnport.org) course "Integrating Blended Instruction Into Your Classroom," and the free Michigan Schools Online Learning (MSOL) "Teaching and Learning Online" course.
 
Julie Evans, CEO of Project Tomorrow has said, “Educators must embrace these emerging technologies to enhance student learning and fully prepare today's students for future success" (July 2009).
Our students are living and learning online; how can we make it great for them? Blend Their Learning!

Sources

Fanter, A. (2009). The Future of Instructional Models. http://www.worldwidelearn.com/education-articles/hybrid-education.html

Jaschik, S. (2009, June 29). The Evidence on Online Education. http://www.insidehighered.com/news/2009/06/29/online

Nagel, D. (2009, July 1). Meta-Analysis: Is Blended Learning Most Effective? http://thejournal.com/articles/2009/07/01/meta-analysis-is-blended-learning-most-effective.aspx

Wire Reports. (2009, July 1). Study: Students want more online learning. http://www.eschoolnews.com/news/top-news/index.cfm?i=59508