What is Blended Learning?

Blended learning combines the best of two learning environments—traditional face-to-face classroom learning and high-tech eLearning. This means that there will be days where students will attend classes in school, and the other remaining days will be for online learning.

Such learning ensures that students receive adequate social interactions from teachers as they can provide emotional support and connection that children need in order to grow and flourish.

With all bases covered, different types of learners can be equally engaged—those who learn better in a structured environment that includes face-to-face interaction with an instructor, and independent types who learn better with semi-autonomous, computer-based training.

Types of Blended Learning Models

Blended learning does not come in just one size. There are several types of blended learning models teachers can use. Often, the type of learning model teachers choose for Home Based Learning depends on the subject being taught, the student’s ability to learn independently, and the robustness of the school’s Learning Management System (LMS).

Here are some of the common blended learning methods you may experience:

• Rotation: Students go from one learning activity to another learning activity, either in a structured learning session directed by a teacher, or online in a self-directed manner. Examples include learning stations, labs, and the flipped classroom where learners practice the lesson before attending the face-to-face lesson.
• Flex: Flex learning, or personalised learning, lets students control their learning path and what they want to learn. Instead of teaching, teachers are present to answer questions.
• Self-Blend: Self-blended learning provides supplemental content—either in the form of newspaper articles, relevant blog posts, podcast episodes, or video tutorials—encouraging self-motivated learners to further explore a subject.
• Online Driver: This blended learning model is entirely digital and self-directed. It provides students with a flexible schedule and personalised learning. A downside is that it lacks the face-to-face interaction students have with their teachers.

Blended Learning during the CoVid-19 Pandemic

Before CoVid-19 forced schools in Singapore and all over the globe to temporarily close, blended learning was defined as the combination of physical classes and online learning. Now, with physical lessons shifted online till 13 June in Singapore, blended learning has taken on a new face.

In place of face-to-face lessons, many schools have started to conduct their classes on virtual meeting platforms like Google Meet and Zoom. To supplement their lessons, students may receive self-directed learning opportunities on top of exercises to be completed after school hours.

Here are some ways you can help your child find this period of blended learning beneficial:

• Discuss what they learned in class
• Encourage them to explore their interest and passions
• Keep them motivated

LEARN MORE ABOUT QE’S ONLINE TUITION PROGRAMME

Besides schools, Singapore has also regulated tuition centres, such as Quintessential Education, to move their lessons online. Anticipating the closure of supplementary education centres, QE has taken steps to enhance our online tuition programme.

IB and IGCSE students attending QE’s premium online classes can expect:

• Seamless transition from physical to online tuition
• Professional customer support for students and parents
• Comprehensive question banks, detailed question analyses, and extensive content coverage