Designing Blended Classrooms

Introduction

Essentially, blended learning is the use of online technology to not just supplement classroom practice, but enhance and improve instruction, assessment, communication, and student engagement. It is not restricted to online courses and can be implemented in P-12 classrooms to varying degrees.

The term blended learning has also been associated with 'flipped classrooms', 'hybrid learning', and 'Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)' models. To avoid confusion, the module on Flipped Instruction would focus on instruction and may represent a level of blending that a teacher is not ready for. Blended Learning is a term that is being promoted in classrooms with interactive media, portable devices, and virtual classrooms. Quite simply, blended learning is a blend of virtual, media-rich, interactive tools with the physical classroom.

A blended classroom should look to technology integration to enhance classroom routine and practices, allowing more time for the teacher to focus on higher-level engagement and student learning. It can range from a slight blend, to something stronger:

• Enhance classroom communication with a blog or social media account.

• Host your course in a Learning Management System (like Google Classroom or Moodle) where students can access course materials and participate in collaborative activities.

• Flip a classroom so basic content delivery and elements of instruction/assessment can be packaged and delivered outside of instructional time.

As a classroom teacher, it is important to consider a number of models of blended learning that could be implemented. Highlight the pros and cons of each model, outline the necessary professional development (pedagogy and technical), outline the necessary technical infrastructure, and consider the support the models with real-world examples and resources.

In addition, because of its reliance on technology as a foundation you would need to consider underlying practical issues: digital divide; infrastructure; PIIDPA/FOIPOP; Cybersafety Act, and Code of Conduct.

Module Activity

The term Blended Learning is really representative of a larger shift in education that is bringing technology integration, pedagogy, and a culture of change together under a single banner. While we hear a lot about the change, it is typically painted in broad strokes.

Option 1: Look at this image 'A Glimpse of Future Learning' and provide a glimpse from your perspective. There are a couple ways to do this, you can annotate the image (for example use Mural or ThingLink) or create your own visual (with a tool such as Canva, Visme or Infogram. Regardless of the path you choose, you should address the future of YOUR current assignment in terms of pedagogy and technology, but also broader changes in culture and society.

Option 2: Part of the blended model is the design of your physical classroom to maximize the potential of physical space and digital tools. Review the article 20 Classroom Setups That Promote Thinking.

Think of your space and the goals you have set for technology integration. Redesign your space based on your goals and what you have learned about maximizing your physical setup to enhance learning. Try Floorplanner.

.... or a Project Extension

Review this blended learning framework and compare it with your project proposal. Using Acrobat Reader's comment and annotation features, provide insight as to where this framework meets your plan to balance digital and scheduled classtime with students.