Blended+Learning

A blended environment is a combination of two learning environment such as face-face classroom and online classroom. A blendedlearning approach combines face to face classroom methods with a virtual classroom that allows a student to log into classes via a computer. ====The benefits of a blendedlearning is to join the best aspects of both face to face and online instruction. Classroom time can be used to engage students in advanced interactive experiences. Meanwhile, the online portion of the course can provide students with multimedia-rich content at any time of day; anywhere the student has internet access. This allows for an increase in scheduling flexibility for students. In addition to flexibility and convenience for students a blended instructional approach can result in learning outcome gains and increased enrollment retention. ==== ====For example, a blended approach to a traditional, face to face course might mean that the class meets once per week instead of the usual three-session format. Learning activities that otherwise would have taken place during classroom time can be moved online. ====

====As an instructor there are several decision-making steps I would choose to determine the blended model. There are no set rules for creating a blended learning course. Developing a blended course requires consideration of how to blend face to face and online materials in an integrated way. ==== ====The next step is student guidance in a blended course. Many students may not have much experience with a blended instructional design, and it is my duty to provide specific, clear instructions on how the course operates. By providing constructive, timely feedback can help students navigate the new environment. I will also have to ensure that the online and face to face course elements are aligned from an instructional perspective that can help students understand why the blended learning is appropriate. ====

Structure and integration of the two modes of instruction are critically important. Some students value structure more highly than instructional content in a blended course. The integration of face to face and online components in a blended course is essential for student satisfaction with a course. In short, students must feel that a blended course is a unified instructional effort, not simply a collection of face to face and online materials or activities that have been thrown together. The instructional designer has a crucial role to play in this aspect of course design. As an instructor I would develop a more positive attitude. The most important step in designing a blended course is how to choose what is best taught online and what is more appropriate for in-class instruction.