Given the high expectations of today’s learners, blended education has emerged as one of the most effective teaching strategies. Blended learning is optimal when it combines online learning components with in-person contact in a traditional classroom. Nevertheless, implementing the services of the blended learning model is not without some difficulties as follows.
It makes the leading training and learning organizations feel sceptical in using the blended learning services. This blog discusses the main risks of blended learning implementation in schools and further outlines their respective mitigations for beginner and professional organizations.
An Overview of Blended Learning Services
Blended learning services involve the combination of face-to-face and online learning strategies which can improve student learning and teaching processes. These services use technology in the form of LMS, semiotics, interactive content, and digital assessments in support of traditional instruction.
Blended learning services give the chance for self-study, to repeat the information as many times as necessary. It has the availability of many resources in class, which might not be possible in a traditional classroom setting. It ensures the best combination of the online and offline learning based on the immediate learning needs.
In addition to blended learning’s apparent flexibility, adaptability, and student interest, integrating online and offline components can be time-consuming. It helps learning and training organizations in making the best of learning based on the right combination at the right time.
Major Issues Considered in Blended Learning Services
Below are points highlighting the surface pitfalls of blended learning services:
- Technology Barriers and Digital Divide
Many students lack the resources to use digital platforms, a device, or a dependable internet connection. As a result, students without these gadgets are left behind, creating a digital divide. Schools and other institutions also have the challenge of choosing and updating the right software and tools, which may occasionally be costly and time-consuming.
- Student Learning and Motivation
Polling students in a blended learning environment can be very tasking, particularly for learners who intend to be lazy. Some students may lack the motivation to complete assigned work, participate in online classes, or complete other tasks that the teacher assigns them. Thus, to avoid students’ isolation, it is necessary to maintain the interconnection between the online and offline components of the proposed system. The use of learning programs will be beneficial only if the students participate with full dedication.
- Lecturer Knowledge and Flexibility
It is not easy to provide an effective solution in blended learning since many educators are not trained in new technologies or are reluctant to innovate. Professional growth is required so that the teacher can create appropriate materials for online lessons, contribute to online discussions, and give feedback in an online mode. In the same bracket, some teachers might also develop difficulty when it comes to adapting their curriculum to the blended learning services.
- Heterogeneous Evaluation and Appraisal
One of the strategies essential to any learning environment is giving feedback that is on time and consistent; however, in blended learning, this is challenging. Supervising students’ performance and comprehending their learning requirements becomes a challenge when half of the class is online and the other half is physical. Teachers might face difficulties evaluating the students’ accomplishment level, assuming tests are not synchronized with lesson plans.
Solutions for Blended Learning Services Issues
With proper strategies, one can resource ideas to overcome the limitations of blended learning services. These mitigations can be mentioned as the following:
- Closing the Technology Divide
To overcome the digital divide, institutions should consider seeking funds to provide students with devices during online learning or offer them hotspots. Schools can also hold orientation sessions for students and teachers on the use of technology in class. Blended learning helps close the technological divide for the beginners and professional trainers in learning or training programs.
- Teacher Training and Support
Teachers and educators should be trained on how to incorporate technology into teaching. Further, they should also learn to incorporate data analysis to track students’ progress or use technology in communication. Another idea is to have group discussions of teachers, or a mentoring program to discuss ideas and find ways to overcome problems. Thus, the blended learning services eliminate the chances of resistance for newest learning organizations.
- Effective Feedback and Assessment
Using technology for ongoing evaluation enables the provision of instant feedback to learners. Using digital assessments that include quizzes, polls, and online assignments facilitates the preparation of automated reports of students. Additional face-to-face or online sessions for one-on-one feedback sessions can also help enhance students’ learning progress.
Rundown Comments
Blended learning services retain a high potential for modernizing education and meeting various corporate learning module needs. Still, to reap those advantages, several obstacles require mitigation, such as the acquisition of technologies, student participation, teacher training, and feedback. Additionally, one can discover a means to improve the learning environment by increasing funds, enhancing teacher preparation, and creating more dynamic materials.
Lastly, what facilitates or hampers the process largely depends on the ability to constantly modify the process and close cooperation between teachers, learners, and other stakeholders. Therefore, blended learning systems will be implemented in every institution as the future resides in technology.
