Blended Learning: Definition, Controversy and Commitment
Blended learning represents opportunity for change. The best approaches blend eLearning with instructor-led training.
Published 07/25/05
By Karl Liebman, Senior Director, Citrix Systems
and Melissa Hopkins, Senior Manager, Citrix Systems
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As various forms of eLearning join traditional instructor-led training, the certification universe is broadening to encompass new possibilities. For many in IT, eLearning is faster, less expensive, and in some cases, easier than traditional classroom courses. With its synchronous and asynchronous flavors, and wide ranges of interactivity, eLearning is opening new frontiers that will require the training industry to redefine itself and its standards in the coming years.
The evolution of eLearning has given birth to the term "blended learning." Blended learning, as it's referred to in the industry, is not as clear-cut as one might hope. While most companies have come to promote blended learning in their certification courses, each defines the term differently. And while blended learning may be the talk of the certification community, there are many misconceptions that this article will seek to clarify.
Appealing to everyone from executives leading their company's certification charge to students eagerly awaiting the convenience of eLearning, the concept of blended learning is often haphazardly referenced as a way to save time and money. But consider this - how might easier and cheaper courses alter the reputation of the certification industry? In lowering barriers to entry, we must be careful not to lower our standards. In fact, recent advances offer opportunities to raise quality, if well-handled.
Defining Blended Learning
Different industries, vendors and students define "blended learning" differently, but most agree it means combining modalities, usually eLearning and instructor-led training. While growing rapidly, misconceptions about blended learning persist.
Time and money drive much of the rising interest in online classes, but it's important to weigh the impact of this trend on the certifications themselves. How will a certification that was once based on a six-hour class, a two-hour lab and a four-hour test are perceived if it's suddenly offered online for a fraction of the price and time?
Content vs. Convenience
As companies develop eLearning components to their certifications, content has sometimes taken a backseat to convenience. Companies should give careful consideration to the student's ability to fully comprehend the content and pass examinations that both reflect the course material and are challenging enough not to be cheated.
It's important to ask: Is this the right content? Will students fully comprehend the material? Will the test accurately reflect mastery of the material and yet still challenge the student? Will trainees make our company more successful for having learned this material? What will be the payoff for our investment of time and money in an employee's training?
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