eLearning Introduction

Models of Blended eLearning

I would like to begin by asking you, in your opinion, "What is blended eLearning?"

Before we begin to develop materials for an eLearning solution, and in our case a Blended eLearning approach, it is important to agree on just what is blended eLearning.

Some people consider blended eLearning to be the use of a variety of online delivery methods to present content and activities to learners. Thus with this approch, the entire course still remains online, but uses a blend of materials to present the content.
Karen Mantyla states: "Blending means taking two or more presentation and distribution methods and combining them to enhance the learning content and experience for the learner." (Karen Mantyla, Blended eLearning, ASTD Press, 2001)

Below is a table that represents a vareity of learning methods that could be combined in a blended approach. (Piskurnich & Sanders, 1998)

Instructional Methods	Presentation Methods	Distribution Methods
case study demonstration expert panels games group discussion lecture practical exercise programmed instruction reading role play simulation	audio CBT EPSS groupware interactive TV multimedia online help teleconferencing virtual reality video	audiotape cable TV CD-ROM computer disk DVD email extranet internet intranet LAC.WAN satellite TV tactile gear/simulator telephone videotape voicemail WWW

"For many training needs, the best solution may be an intelligent hybrid mingling the best features of each (WBT and classroom training) ".

~ William Horton
Designing Web-based Training
p. 62

Related Readings:

Chapter 3
Designing Web Based Training

Related sites to review:

Blended Training: Prerequisites and Purple Monkeys

Blended Learning Case Study

Mixing Media for Continuous Learning

Another perspective to blended eLearning is to consider it an approach for mixing face-to-face classes with online activities and lessons. There are two ways we could do that, as presented by William Horton (p. 62-65).

One approach is to meet with learners first to present prerequisite skills and information. The primary course information and activities are then delivered via eLearning. The class then meets again at the end of the course for follow-up and closure.

Another approach is to have students access prerequisite course information skills online. The primary course information and activities are then delivered by an instructor in a traditional classroom. The class will complete activities and assignments for the class online.

What do I do after this lesson?

For this course, you will be designing a series of online tutorials for a specific audience. You should begin to consider the model of eLearning you will be using.

Are these tutorials going to be blended with a traditional face-to-face course?

Are these tutorials going to be offered as a stand alone online course?

In our Blackboard course site (http://cde.sshe.edu:8092), participate in the threaded discussion titled: "Blended Models for eLearning"