Lesson 2 – Hybrid (or Blended) Learning
Deeper Dive into Hybrid (or Blended) Learning
Now that the modalities offered at Algonquin College have been introduced, let’s dive deeper into understanding the specifics of hybrid courses. Many other institutions, as well as educational research, tend to use the term “blended learning” rather than ‘hybrid courses’ or ‘hybrid learning.’ Throughout this course, the terms are used interchangeably.
Blended learning describes the thoughtful and intentional integration of in-person and online learning experiences (Garrison & Kanuka, 2004; Garrison & Vaughn, 2008). This can include a wide range of learning activities, including the use of educational technology to enrich the learning experience, online preparation before class, flipped classroom design, and consolidation activities after class. The intent of blended learning is to increase access and flexibility, and there is some evidence that suggests students learn more effectively and have greater satisfaction in blended courses (Garrison & Kanuka, 2004).
A key characteristic of blended learning is that it is not just “adding on” to the in-person learning. It is the intentional blend of both face-to-face and online learning to enhance teaching effectiveness.
There is no single method to designing and teaching a hybrid course. Some hybrid courses may have greater emphasis on content delivery in the online course space (within the Learning Management System) and use class time for active learning opportunities such as group work, discussions, or other activities. One such method is called the flipped classroom or flipped learning and will be elaborated on later in this course. Other hybrid courses may have the bulk of content delivery in the in-person classroom and use the online course space for follow-up or independent preparation activities.
What is Blended Learning? (Video)
This video from Helpful Professor Explains! provides an overview of the features of blended learning, as well as some strengths and limitations. The next sub-module dives deeper into advantages and challenges. While watching this video, it’s important to keep in mind that this is a general description of blended learning and “hybrid courses” at Algonquin College may differ slightly. For example, the video states that one strength is “Improved Accessibility” because it makes learning more accessible to those students that have difficulty attending in-person classes. At Algonquin College, the online learning activities are not a replacement for in-person classes.
After watching the video, complete the H5P activity below to check your knowledge.