Categories of online learning
Categories of online learning
Some authors have categorized online learning according to the proportion of time spent online during teaching and learning. We follow this categorization here:
Traditional: In traditional teaching the Internet is not used. Teaching is typically conducted face-to-face, with students and educator being present at a single location at the same time. The Internet is not used in teaching, nor are students expected to use it for study. Some distance learning is also traditionally based, using correspondence as a means of communication between educator and student, but this has become somewhat of a rarity today due to the increasing use and ease of access to the Internet.
Web facilitated learning: Here, the Web is referred to in teaching. Students might be referred to the Internet for self study or to complete homework tasks. The Web might be used in actual teaching, but to a lesser extent. The majority of teaching occurs on a face-to-face basis.
Blended or hybrid teaching: There is an approximately equal mix of both face-to-face teaching and online learning. The extent of each is context specific, depending on the material being taught, the students themselves, and other factors. For example, student ability might influence the amount and level of teaching performed online. More independent students could be instructed to use the Internet. Other learners might need more face-to-face support.
Fully online teaching: Teaching is conducted exclusively using the Internet and Web. Students and Educator might never meet. Educators might meet students at enrollment, or when courses begin, or at only isolated periods during the period of study. However, all teaching occurs online. This more fully meets what is traditionally considered distance education in the true sense.
Read more online at: What is online learning?
Or my book: Teaching Online: A guide to developing online learning resources.