Blended learning integrates classroom-based, teacher-led instruction with learning via technology and digital media (outside of the classroom). Each type of learning supports and enhances the other, and allows for greater flexibility for both the students and the teacher.
Shown to reduce failure rates, improve learning, and boost engagement, blended learning improves student success by allowing them to progress at their own pace.
TIPS FOR BLENDING LEARNING SESSIONS
1. MAKE ONLINE LEARNING ACTIVE
In many cases, teachers fall into the trap of having their online content be passive – that is, students only watch videos.
Improve student engagement by making online learning active – for instance, with online challenges, interactive exercises, and quizzes, like the ones that you can find on Zenva Schools.
2. FLIP YOUR CLASSROOM
Have students cover the basics and technical content at home, using online resources like the courses from Zenva Schools.
That way, you can save classroom time for discussions and troubleshooting problems – making learning both quicker and more efficient.
3. SET INDIVIDUAL GOALS
Students learn at different paces – so their content should be different as well.
Provide students who are struggling with supplementary content, bridging the gap between them and their peers. Give advanced students additional content to keep them engaged. Tools like Zenva Schools make this easy, as you can assign different content to different learning groups, and track their progress using its reporting features.
4. ENSURE THAT ONLINE MATERIALS ARE ACCESSIBLE
Not all students will have access to top-of-the-line equipment, or know how to navigate complex software.
Zenva Schools is a fully online platform – it works on a standard internet connection on desktop, tablet, and mobile. Plus, it has a simple interface and login, ensuring that any student can access it easily.
SCHOOLS USING A BLENDED APPROACH
At Park Ridge State High School, Daniel used digital learning to bridge gaps between special needs students and their classmates. He provided students who were on Individual Curriculum Plans (ICPs) with simpler content on Zenva Schools, ensuring that they were fully supported.
Even with the kids on ICPs of year three, they’re not having trouble using Zenva… they are able to get in the course and can engage with that better than what we were doing around the class.
Daniel Jones, Digital Technologies Teacher at Park Ridge High School
At Bentley Park College, Lorena used a blended learning approach to support her students when external disruptions resulted in the school’s campus closing, forcing students to learn from home. She set up her students on Zenva Schools, which allowed her to assign students courses based on their abilities and track their progress.
They can access Zenva Schools from home, and if I’m away, they can still access it through school. So it’s just that backup for kids who are away or if they miss something, they can go back and check it. I just love it.
Lorena Goodall, Digital and Design Technology Teacher & HOD of IT at Bentley Park College