What is “blended learning”?

Blended learning refers to an educational approach that combines traditional face-to-face instruction with online learning activities. This method leverages the strengths of both in-person and digital formats, allowing for a more flexible and personalized learning experience. In a blended learning environment, instructors can facilitate classroom discussions, hands-on activities, and real-time feedback while also utilizing online resources, modules, and assessments that students can access at their convenience. This combination can enhance engagement and accommodate different learning styles, making it a comprehensive training strategy that is increasingly popular in various educational contexts.

In contrast, focusing solely on online education does not embody the blended aspect, which emphasizes the integration of in-person elements. Excluding face-to-face interactions entirely contradicts the foundational element of blending various modalities. Lastly, labeling blended learning as informal misrepresents its structured and purposeful design aimed at enhancing the educational experience through a deliberate combination of both teaching methods.