Things To Consider When Introducing Blended Learning To Your Business
Blended learning – often referred to as ‘hybrid learning’ – is an educational model that combines classroom lessons with digitally accessed resources. This model is all the rage in business learning and development circles due to its proven effectiveness in cultivating educated and ambitious workforces.
Traditional classroom learning does have certain advantages over e-learning. Instructors can interact freely with students, and complex subjects can be expanded upon according to the skill level of the student. Classroom learning, however, is not entirely practical or even superior to e-learning in some circumstances.
The blended learning model combines the benefits of both styles and enables a workplace leader or HR team member to offer a flexible learning environment. The Covid-19 pandemic provoked the emergence of a ‘new normal’. Hybrid and remote working models became impossible to ignore in almost every industry. Blended learning models allow for education and worker development programs to be delivered regardless of whether a worker is able to be physically present in the office, workshop, or headquarters.
Implementing blended learning at a business is not altogether simple. Here are some things that need to be carefully considered.
Table of Contents
Data Collection
One of the main advantages of offering any kind of digital learning is the ability of educational leaders to collect useful data. This data – which can include course completion rates, feedback, and much more – can then be used to improve future educational efforts within the company.
It is important to plan for and refine the kinds of data that are collected so as to avoid the collection of datasets too large and varied to be useful. As such, it’s crucial to keep data collection lean.
Platform
The digital aspect of a blended learning platform is usually delivered using an educational platform. There are two main kinds of digital learning platforms used by modern businesses:
LMS
Learning Management Systems have long been the most popular digital education platforms in the corporate world. They allow for the distribution of learning materials from a central hub. Although popular, these systems have been criticized for being too top-heavy and feedback restrictive.
LXP
Learning Experience Platforms are similar to Learning Management Systems but typically offer a more personalized and reciprocal experience for learners. Every person learns in a different way, and LXPs seek to reflect the individual needs of each learner in order to create the most effective knowledge-expanding experience. The LMS vs LXP debate is still on, but many experts believe that more personalized learning experiences have a brighter future in the world of corporate education.
Collaboration And Communication
Business leaders need to figure out the ideal level of reciprocal collaboration and communication to implement (or allow) a blended learning model. Not all circumstances call for a top-down or hyper-collaborative learning environment.
The level of influence that learners themselves have on the process of teaching and learning should be carefully planned. There should always be some means by which feedback can be given on the effectiveness of an educational program.