Myths and Truths of Online Learning; Concept of Blended Learning

In our last blog we talked about the importance, reach and characteristics of e-learning. In this blog we will take it a step further and learn about the myths and facts of e-learning. We will also learn about the latest concept in the field of learning – blended learning.

Myths and truths of online learning:

Myth#1: Online learning and distance learning are one and the same

Truth: No, they are not. Distance learning is online learning’s evolutionary predecessor in some ways. But the latter is a more evolved and more technology-centric form of education. In online learning, the idea is to provide the student with all the benefits of a regular classroom PLUS the benefits that technology offers.

Myth#2: One cannot expect quality education through online learning

Truth: Over the last two decades, online education has been going from strength to strength, extending its reach and expanding its scope. Studies have shown that students feel they receive better education in online format – both quality and quantity wise – as compared to traditional education format1. In fact, they even derive ‘greater degree of satisfaction with the delivery of online courses’ when compared to the students enrolled in the same class in face-to-face format

2.

Moreover, if the classes or instructors are of inferior quality, the respective schools are at the risk of being put on probation, or worse—losing their accreditation altogether.

Myth#3: Only smart and talented students can learn online

Truth: As a matter of fact, online education has worked well with students of all kinds, including at‐risk students (those who at risk of failing academically), students in urban, suburban and rural areas, those with limited English knowledge, and even those with special needs.

Myth #4: My employer will not value my online degree

Turth: According to a Vault.com survey (2005)3 about 86 percent of employers would be willing to recruit a candidate with an online degree. Moreover, by attaining an online degree you are telling your employer how self-motivated and disciplined you are. These are just the kind of traits that employers look for in their prospective employee.

Myth#5: Online learning happens in isolation and isn’t as sociable as classroom learning.

Truth: Most online learning institutions have features such as chat rooms that enable easy and live interaction among teachers and students. This is a great boon for those shy students who hesitate from actively participating in the real time class discussion. Compared to last decade, the class sizes at most brick-and-mortar institutions are steadily on the rise. This means reduced classroom interaction between the students and the teacher. Online learning is definitely a better option under such circumstances.

There are some more myths related to online learning that have been busted over the years. Here is some extra reading material for those interested.

Seven myths about online education busted; The Myths of Online Learning; 10 http://communities.gyanfinder.comMyths about Online Learning

Blended Learning

Now, quickly about blended learning – In 2003 the American Society for Training and Development identified blended learning as one of its Top 10 trends to emerge in the knowledge-delivery industry.

Blended learning is defined as the mix of traditional classroom instruction and instruction mediated by technology. But why is blended learning important?Blended learning makes up the “fastest growing use of technologies in learning—much faster than the development of online courses.”

In education sector one clear advantage of blended learning is its relation with differentiated instruction. Differentiated instruction means tailor made instruction based on student needs. In this instruction style the teachers take into consideration the students’ learning styles, interests and abilities and decide the curriculum and learning activities accordingly. Another advantage is that students get some leeway with regard to the pace and attendance. If the student was absent for a certain class, he can refer to the material and other related literature used during that class. And his ability to self-pace leads to higher completion rate for students in blended learning classrooms than to those in exclusively e-learning situations.

In business

One of the best advantages of blended learning in the corporate world is the cost-effectiveness. If a business depends solely on instructor-led training, there are various expenses involved such as instructor’s remuneration, transportation, accommodation, food and others. Blended learning helps cutting down these costs by drastically reducing the time needed for face-to-face instruction. Thus, blended learning is important for both education and corporate worlds.

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