Blended learning is an educational buzzword that gets thrown around quite a bit. In this edition of Teaching w/ Tech, we will define what it is, what it isn't, and share some tools and resources around blended learning.

Blended learning isn't a new instructional delivery method, in fact it's roots date back to 1840. This instructional delivery method is becoming best practice. In the near future we might just drop "blended" from the description, referring to it as "learning". So...Let's Blend!

"Blended learning is leveraging teachers and technology to improve student outcomes"

-Steve Robinson

Blended learning Isn't...

Blended learning isn't just using multiple formats. If all learners are reading the same content, at the same pace, with the exact same expectations, just in a different format, that isn't blended learning. Blended learning involves instructional differentiation, including student choice and voice. Blended learning isn't just replacing a human instruction with a digital version.

Blended learning is a good idea because...

Benefits of Blended Learning:

For the Student

• By having a "blend" of content format (type, readability, etc) the learner is more engaged, having choice and voice, as well as opportunity for different learning styles.
• "Time" constraints change for the learner. Blended learning allows for learners to work on their own time and potentially take assessments in a less stressful environment.

For the Teacher

• Blended learning leads to an improved feedback loop with students. Teachers can provide individualized feedback around performance and progress. Using real-time data from online assessments, discussions, and feedback, allows for the teacher to design intervention and enrichment activities both online and in the physical classroom.
• Online assessments (formative and summative) allow for the teacher to maximize face-to-face time in the physical classroom for designed learning and performance assessments.

But how do I organize all of this? Use Google Classroom!

Google Classroom is a great tool to use as the conduit or "home base" for blended learning. Google Classroom allows for you to post content, maybe from one of the site above, discussion questions, and assignments. Rather than recreate the wheel, below is an excellent Google Classroom Cheat Sheet created by Ben Cogswell

Good Reads and Resources About Blended Learning...