A study reveals what we, as Gen Z, love eating for breakfast. About 52% prefer having a bowl of smoothie over sitting down for a 20-minute meal. It’s not just about fruits anymore. We want functional smoothies — think added protein, adaptogens like ashwagandha for stress, oat milk or gut health boosters. This is exactly how blended learning works. It blends the old school traditional classroom vibe with the flexibility of studying with modern online tools. Moreover, didn’t COVID show us that we could work with a formal shirt and pyjamas? While the pandemic peaked our laziness, it also accelerated something major in the education sector.
Blended learning has been here since the 2000s. But it wasn’t until the world shut down that it took centre stage. Simply put, it’s the best of both worlds — traditional face-to-face learning coupled with modern online learning methods. In this blog, we’ll see how this revolution is taking shape and how you can participate in it.
What is Blended Learning?
Imagine this — You wake up in the morning. It’s raining outside. You wish to watch a lecture from the comfort of your apartment. Later that afternoon, you head to your class to have a discussion on the lecture you watched. That’s the main character energy of Blended Learning.
So, how is blended learning different from traditional learning? In a traditional setup, if you miss a class, you’re doomed. With blended learning, all the resources are at a click’s distance. Know that it’s not just about dumping PDFs but systematically blending digital learning tools with in-person interaction. However, it is not a ‘one size fits all’ deal. There are 6 different types of blended learning to suit your style of studying. Let’s break them down.
Still confused about what is blended learning? Explore this Quora thread and find answers from students themselves.
Types of Blended Learning for Students
Blended learning isn’t just about taking online classes. It is much deeper and designed in different types to suit your schedule. Knowing these types will help you pick a course and a college that matches your vibe. Out of all, the face-to-face driver model is the most famous, so let’s start from there.
Face-to-Face Driver Model
This is much like the traditional learning method, a classic remix. You get instructions either online or in person. You use the online tools for homework and remediation. It works best for those who still want to have the traditional mode of teaching with the online tools to guide for their homework.
Flipped Model
As the name suggests, this model helps you flip in a way that you finish watching or reading a chapter before you enter the class. You use the class time to do your homework or clear your doubts. In this model, you are simply flipping the face-to-face driver model. If you are a self-study type of student, then this might be your role model.
Enriched Virtual Model
This model works best for independent learners. Here, you do most of your class work online and only visit your instructors for specific sessions. It’s perfect if you wish to study by yourself and visit your college occasionally.
Flex Model
As the name suggests, this is a super flexible model. Here, you are directing your own course of learning. You choose between online studying and group working. The teacher is more like a mentor than a lecturer.
Rotational Model
If you’re someone who tends to get ‘bored’ too soon, this model might ring a bell. It’s almost like circuit training. You may start with a small group led by an instructor and then move on to self-studying online.
Online Driver Model
Want to be the captain of your ship? This model is for you. Here, you rely mostly on the online platform to learn. You can definitely chat with an instructor if you need any help, but mostly, it’s you sailing on your own.
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🏫 Explore Verified UK HousingBenefits of Blended Learning for Students?
The right way to pick a blended learning model for students is to understand your personality and your schedule. Do you need flexibility for a side hustle, or are you looking for structure? Either way, here are 5 benefits of blended learning to help you make the right choice.
Catching Up after Missing a Class
Anxiety took over your morning? Or got a side hustle going? Not a problem with blended learning. Catch up with all the online material at your preferred time and place. Maybe an Enriched Virtual Model is for you, where all your classes are online. You can visit your instructor at your convenience.
Study at Your Own Speed
Some teachers speak at a 0.5x speed but you’re probably at 2x. Blended learning tools let you fast-track or slow down because you are in charge of the playback button. If you get it, skip it. If not, rewind. It’s that simple. If you’ve got a captain energy, then the Online Driver Model is your ship.
Easier Online Group Work and Collaboration
You’re probably somebody who works better in collaboration. But getting your group under the same roof? Difficult. This is where blended learning tools come in handy. Get in touch with your team whenever you’re stuck or simply reach out to your trainer.
Better Work-Life Balance
If you’re an artist who’s got a late-night music gig, but paying bills is a reality while you’re working on getting that degree. Gosh, that’s a mouthful! But not impossible. In fact easier with a blended learning course. With the flexibility of learning at your convenience, you can do more.
Continuous Access to Resources
Gone are the days of taking hurried and incorrect notes while the lectures are on. Your study material is available 24/7 with blended learning courses. This means that when a trainer is giving a lecture, you completely focus your attention without having to take notes, unless you really want to.
Now that you know the pros, let’s find you a proficient student accommodation near your university with UniAcco.
🔑 Explore Verified UK HousingDownside of Blended Learning for Students
A downside doesn’t mean that a model is bad. It simply means we must be aware of our choices and the potential drawbacks that can be mitigated. It means we have to be aware of what we’re signing up for. Let’s shed some light on how to mitigate risks involved in blended learning models for students to make the most of it.
- Difficulty in Maintaining Self-Discipline
The ‘Watch Later’ syndrome is real. Not having the teacher’s eyes on you and not being answerable comes with a risk. Maintaining self-discipline is crucial. In fact, ask yourself how disciplined you are before picking up a model.
- Increased Screen Fatigue
Spending 10 hours a day in front of the screen? Be careful. Integrate techniques like the Pomodoro to take a 5-minute break after every 25 minutes to heal your eyes from screen fatigue.
- Feeling of Isolation
It’s inevitable to feel isolated when you’re learning from the machine with minimal human interaction. According to a study, 75% of students preferred face-to-face activities as online lectures feel less interactive.
- Confusion Due to Many Platforms
If you’re someone who isn’t so friendly with the machine, keeping track of all the links might be a hassle. Learning to organise better is the key. Having a system in place makes it easy to access your notes, videos, etc.
- Procrastination due to Recorded Lectures
The ‘Watch Later’ button might scream convenience, but it also screams procrastination. Beware of falling into this trap and avoid watching all the videos right before the exam. That’s a big no.
Curious what students think about blended learning? Read this Reddit thread to know the first-hand experience.
What was your experience with blended … – r/Professors from r/Professors
Conclusion
AI isn’t just a trend. Similarly, blended learning is here to stay. It’s the new normal. It does give you the freedom, but at a cost, which we’ve touched upon in this blog. It’s less about whether it is good or bad, and more about what’s the right way, the right model, for you. Choosing wisely and maintaining discipline are the crucial takeaways. The future of education is here, and it’s blended just like that bowl of smoothie.
That reminds us, have you found the right kitchen to make a delicious bowl of smoothie before you sit for your class in pyjamas? Choose UniAcco and find affordable verified student accommodations near your university.
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