It is inevitable to realize that education has changed significantly since the pandemic. We were all expelled from the classroom and forced to learn from our computers. Even though online education isn’t new, it wasn’t the norm. Since the pandemic, many students and educators have transitioned into something relatively new: blended learning. Focusing specifically on students, most have realized that they do like going to school more than being online, whilst others have come to like online learning more. However, there are students that are caught in the middle.
The third category, one which I would put myself in, are those students who like a balance; those who want to learn in a classroom, but would like one or two classes online. This may be for a variety of reasons. Personally, I prefer in-person learning, but I also like having the flexibility of learning wherever I want to; being able to take weekend trips and still attend my classes, listen to a lecture on the beach, or just take class in my own space. Online classes are also a great way to make the most of your time. As a college student, 7:00 AM and even 8:30 AM classes are difficult to wake up for and attend. If those classes are online though, I can easily wake up 20 minutes before and get ready instead of having to wake up an hour or earlier to eat breakfast, get ready, and commute.Â
All this being said, I believe the best way for higher education to move forward is through blended learning. First, it’s important to understand what blended learning really is. When I say blended I don’t mean students picking some classes that are online and other classes that are in person, which is the system that is currently in place. What I mean is that all classes should incorporate blended teaching methods, meaning professors would combine face-to-face classroom experiences with online ones that include synchronous and asynchronous lessons and assessments which can be completed digitally or in person.Â
Before continuing, it is also imperative to recognize the challenges that implementing blended education entails. Factors such as technological barriers, digital divide, financial constraints, teacher training, student engagement, collaboration difficulties, socio-cultural factors, assessments, accountability, and more are very real hurdles that need to be tackled in order for it to be carried out effectively and equitably. As a sophomore in college, I obviously have experienced and realized that research and execution don’t always translate directly. One thing schools can do to implement blended education and address the difficulties mentioned above is to assess the technological accessibility of students and professors. Blended education requires a two way street of communication and this can’t be done without the proper equipment, like a computer and internet access. I believe that by partnering with resource centers and nonprofit organizations there can be less of a divide. Additionally, it’s important to provide educators support to effectively teach in a blended setting. It’s equally important to provide flexible learning options that can accommodate students’ varying needs.Â
That last paragraph was a mouthful that probably left you wondering why anyone would go through such trouble when the current learning system is working relatively well. Before going into all the benefits of blended learning, ask yourself: is the current system really working? If the professional world is moving into blended working environments, shouldn’t university students that are presumably preparing to enter the workforce in a field related to their major be prepared for a blended work setting as well?Â
The main reasons to move education into incorporating blended methods are as follows: combines online and traditional learning techniques, caters to different learning styles and preferences, and leads to higher engagement. As previously mentioned, one of my reasons for taking some classes online is flexible scheduling. Blended learning grants students the opportunity to attend classes virtually if they are unable to assist in person due to health issues. It also gives working students more downtime since they would be commuting less and allows educators to manage their schedules more easily. Another advantage is that the blend of in-person and online interactions can enhance students’ communication skills because it allows collaboration among students, even when they are not physically together. Online components also permit access to a wider range of resources and materials. It becomes more cost-effective in the long run as it reduces costs related to commutes, parking, and physical classroom materials. Finally, it prepares students for the modern workplace by familiarizing them with today’s dynamic work environments. Students can become more adept at using digital tools and platforms which makes them digitally literate and proficient. Students are also taught to adapt and collaborate without being in-person; the online component encourages them to take initiative and be more independent.Â
In conclusion, the point of this article is to understand that, despite its challenges and because of its benefits, blended education is the future. I completely recognize that it won’t be applicable to all fields of education, but it will be the best alternative for most students moving forward. Ultimately, the goal is to create better learning environments and situations to motivate students and prepare them for the modern workforce.