What is Blended learning?
Also called: Hybrid learning · Blended trainingDefinition
Blended learning is an approach to training that combines online, self-paced learning, such as e-learning modules, videos and quizzes, with live instruction, either in a classroom or in virtual sessions, and often with on-the-job practice. Each element is chosen for what it does best: self-paced content for knowledge, live sessions for discussion, practice and feedback, and workplace tasks for application. A well-designed blend is one programme with a single set of objectives, not separate courses running side by side.
A typical corporate blend has pre-work (short e-learning or reading so everyone arrives with the same baseline), a live workshop or series of virtual sessions focused on practice and discussion, post-work applying the skill to a real task, and a follow-up assessment or coaching check-in. The LMS assigns and tracks each element, so facilitators can see who completed pre-work and managers can see application.
For corporate L&D, blending reduces classroom time and cost, lets people learn at their own pace, and uses live time for the things that need a facilitator. It also makes measurement easier, because online elements produce data. Bodhih Training delivers in-house workshops, and bodhih.org courses and the Bodhih LMS cover the online side; each trainer toolkit includes pre-work and a virtual delivery guide for blended delivery.
Common mistakes: “blending” by uploading slides after a workshop; pre-work so long nobody does it; live sessions that repeat the e-learning instead of building on it; and no follow-up, so the programme ends at the classroom door.
Key points
- Combines self-paced online learning with live instruction.
- Each element is chosen for what it does best.
- One programme, one set of objectives.
- An LMS assigns and tracks every element.
- Pre-work, live practice, application and follow-up.
An example at work
A Hyderabad pharma company trains 120 medical representatives on a new product with a 45-minute e-learning module and quiz, a one-day classroom workshop of doctor-call roleplays, and a field assignment recorded on their phones and reviewed by area managers within four weeks.
Where this is used at Bodhih
Related terms
70-20-10 model
The 70-20-10 model is a learning and development guideline suggesting people learn about 70% from experience, 20% from others and 10% from formal training.
Microlearning
Microlearning is a way of designing training as short, focused units, each built around one objective that a learner can finish in a few minutes.
Learning management system
A learning management system (LMS) is software that delivers, assigns, tracks and reports on training, from e-learning courses to classroom sessions and certifications.
ADDIE model
The ADDIE model is a five-phase instructional design process: Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation and Evaluation.
Learning pathway
A learning pathway is a planned sequence of learning activities and assessments that takes a learner from a starting level to a defined, measurable outcome.
Instructional design
Instructional design is the systematic practice of creating learning experiences that reliably help people gain specific knowledge and skills.
More about Blended learning
What is the difference between blended learning and hybrid learning?
The terms are often used interchangeably. Strictly, blended learning combines online and face-to-face activities in one programme, while hybrid learning often means some participants attend a live session in person and others join remotely at the same time. In corporate training, most people use “blended” for both.
What are examples of blended learning in corporate training?
Onboarding that mixes e-learning modules with an induction day and buddy meetings; leadership programmes with online pre-work, workshops and coaching; and product training with e-learning, roleplays and field assignments. The common thread is online content for knowledge and live time for practice.