As we move forward from what seemed like forever under the monstrous pandemic, changes and adjustments are bound to happen once again. When the schools were shut down, teachers and students were forced to adjust to remote learning (mostly online learning). After more than 2 years of continuous struggle, we have finally eased health restrictions and safety protocols which somehow took off some baggage now that we are already looking forward to the gradual resumption of face-to-face classes.
It is already given that the inclusion of online learning or remote learning, in general, is the new normal for education. We realize that there are parts of the learning process that can be done at home while also considering those that can only be done in a school setup. But how beneficial is the blended learning setup to both teachers and students? As we gear up for the gradual re-opening of classrooms and schools, we listed down the reasons why Blended Learning is the way to go.
- Saves Money
Blended learning saves both the educator’s and students’ money. Although you would have to spend on internet bills unless it is subsidized, blended learning reduces costs of course preparations and by repurposing lesson contents. Travel and venue expenses when training is also expected to reduce by integrating eLearning and online trainings. On the students’ end, travel and food expenses will also be reduced if there will be days where they only stay at home while remote learning.
- Easy access to resources
With blended learning, students have more chances in accessing more resources for learning easily. There are now many available learning materials which they can use online while at the same time access resources from physical libraries. However, it is important to note to still monitor if these resources are credible or not (READ: How to spot fake news).
- Flexible and Reinforces Engagement, Learning, and Retention
Some students juggle work and school at the same time. Blended learning helps students like them manage their time according to their priorities other than education. Some students also have their own pace when it comes to learning so, the blended learning setup is advantageous when managing one’s time. For the teachers, it enables them to be more creative in delivering the lessons because they are not limited by the four corners of a classroom. They can use multiple modalities which in turn helps to reinforce the engagement, learning, and retention of students with their lessons. The use of multiple modalities also enables the teachers to design their courses in a way that is student centric.
- Enables Edtech
With the rapid advancement of technology, there are new gadgets and software that can help support education in an online setup. The innovation of Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR) is a great help in producing educational materials and activities in blended learning. With the right equipment and its availability in educational institutions, students will get a more inclusive learning experience even when learning at home.
- Attainment of Soft Skills
Soft skills are character traits and interpersonal attributes required in the workplace for professional success. It is proven that blended learning helps foster soft skills such as time management, critical thinking, and team cooperation. According to Digital Marketing Institute, “ A study published by Elsevier tested a group of calculus students to see how a blended learning model impacted soft skills. The conclusion of their study was that the ability to communicate via email or online improved participation. And that because students were actively discussing and vocalizing their understanding of concepts, blended learning helped build confidence and success. It was concluded that communication skills changed favorably with a blended learning course.”
- Immediate feedback
With the use of auto checkers in online learning management systems, student assessments and outputs are evaluated automatically, and feedback is posted as soon as the students submit their quizzes unlike face-to-face student assessments where it would usually take time for students to view grades because of manual checking. Blended learning may also give students a chance to monitor or trace their grades in their course activities. Immediate feedback helps saves time for the teachers which can be used as a time for consultation.
Are you ready for the bended learning setup? Let us know what you think by commenting!
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