Blended learning and flipped learning strategies have been used in the classroom (in one form or another) for decades.
Yet the debate over which approach is better is still ongoing.
The team here at Education Perfect don’t believe one is objectively better than the other. We believe the best strategies are the strategies that work for you.
So to find which one (or a blend of both) matches your style and your students, we’ve broken down each theory.
Understanding Blended Learning
What Is Blended Learning?
Blended learning combines traditional face-to-face classroom methods with online educational activities. This hybrid model offers flexibility, allowing students to access resources and participate in learning activities both in-person and remotely. You can use digital education tools like virtual simulations, online discussion boards, and interactive quizzes to enhance the teaching experience.
The goal is to create a personalised learning environment that caters to individual student needs. Students can take an active role in their education by engaging with content at their own pace.
Key Benefits of Blended Learning
Blended learning offers several advantages:
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Flexibility: Students can learn at their own pace, revisiting challenging materials or advancing through topics quickly.
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Increased Student Engagement: Interactive content such as videos, quizzes, and simulations make learning dynamic.
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Differentiated Instruction: Allows you to tailor teaching methods to individual student needs.
This personalised approach can improve student outcomes and cater to different learning styles. Blended learning also fosters a sense of independence, enhancing academic skills and preparing students for real-world challenges.
Challenges of Blended Learning
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Equitable access to technology is crucial, as not all students have reliable internet or necessary devices.
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You need to develop new skills and become adept at using digital tools, which requires time and resources for training.
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Blended learning can sometimes increase your workload, as managing both online and face-to-face components effectively is demanding.
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Monitoring student progress online can be complex, requiring robust systems for tracking.
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Maintaining student motivation and discipline without traditional classroom structure can also be challenging.
Understanding Flipped Learning
Defining Flipped Learning
Flipped learning inverts the traditional teaching model. Students explore new content at home, typically through video lectures or reading assignments. Classroom time is dedicated to applying this knowledge through discussions, problem-solving, or projects.
The primary goal is to make the classroom a space for active learning and deeper engagement. This method encourages students to take responsibility for their learning, engaging with the material independently before class. It allows you to observe students in real-time, identifying and addressing individual learning needs effectively.
Advantages of Flipped Learning
Flipped learning maximises classroom time for interactive activities:
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Encourages active learning through discussions and projects.
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Develops self-directed learning skills as students review content independently.
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Enables personalised support, addressing individual student needs.
This approach allows for more differentiated instruction, supporting diverse learning styles and paces. You can quickly identify and address misconceptions during active learning sessions.
Drawbacks of Flipped Learning
Flipped learning faces several challenges:
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Relies on students engaging with content at home, which can be an issue if they lack motivation or discipline.
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Not all students have equal access to technology or a reliable internet connection.
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Creating high-quality, engaging content for students to consume outside class is time-consuming.
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Transitioning to a flipped classroom model can be difficult, requiring a shift in mindset and teaching approach.
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Assessing the effectiveness of flipped learning demands new metrics and methods.
Comparing Blended and Flipped Learning
Similarities Between the Two Approaches
Blended and flipped learning share similarities:
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Both leverage technology to enhance the learning experience.
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They foster student-centered learning, encouraging active roles in education.
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Both emphasise flexibility in education, allowing students to learn at their own pace.
Best Practices for Implementation
When to Use Blended Learning
Blended learning is effective in settings that prioritise flexibility and resource accessibility.
It’s well-suited for subjects like science and maths, where interactive simulations enhance complex concepts.
Blended learning extends learning opportunities beyond traditional hours, develops digital literacy, and addresses constraints like limited classroom space. It suits schools wanting to integrate technology consistently.
When to Use Flipped Learning
Flipped learning is ideal for maximising classroom interaction and engagement.
It’s beneficial for subjects thriving on discussion, analysis, and application. This approach encourages critical thinking and collaboration.
Use flipped learning where students have reliable tech access. It suits those comfortable creating multimedia content and willing to rethink teaching methods.
Blending and Flipping: A Hybrid Approach
A hybrid approach combines elements of both blended and flipped learning. Suppose a science class adopts a hybrid approach by delivering video lectures before class and conducting experiments during face-to-face sessions. For example:
Technology delivers pre-class content, allowing students to engage with foundational concepts via recorded lectures. During class, online and face-to-face activities are integrated, whereby students follow up on video lessons with hands-on experiments.
Outcomes of this approach include:
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Enhanced student engagement through a mix of theoretical and practical learning;
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Improved learning outcomes as students apply concepts in real-time;
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Flexibility in learning pace, allowing students to review lectures as needed;
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Development of essential digital skills as students navigate online resources;
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Maximised classroom time dedicated to interactive and experiential activities.
Choosing the Right Approach
Blended Learning is Best for You If…
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You want to consistently integrate technology into your teaching.
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Your curriculum objectives align well with a blend of in-person and online activities.
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You are ready to adapt your teaching strategies to incorporate digital tools.
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The available technological resources support both in-class and remote learning.
Flipped Learning is Best for You If…
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You prioritise independent learning and maximise interactive class time.
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Your students thrive in an environment where they can engage with content at home and apply knowledge actively in class.
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You are prepared to accommodate diverse student learning styles with a focus on active participation.
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You have the resources and willingness to transition from traditional instruction to a flipped model.
What you can do next…
Both blended and flipped learning benefit from edtech, whether it’s in the class as a way to practice a concept in a whole new way, or at home to get introduced to an exciting new topic.
To get the best idea of how to use edtech for your flipped or blended learning class, check out our whitepaper on improving student outcomes with consolidated edtech!
