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Blended learning: definition, advantages & use in the company

By combining digital self-study modules with targeted attendance and transfer phases, blended learning offers maximum flexibility, high practical relevance and up to 24% better learning success than pure e-learning.

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Max Mustermann

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What is blended learning?

The term blended learning refers to a form of learning that combines online and face-to-face elements. This method is often referred to as “mixed learning” or “integrated learning”. It combines synchronous and asynchronous learning, digitally supported modules and face-to-face teaching in a well thought-out didactic concept.

Blended learning combines the advantages of e-learning with the depth of face-to-face learning. Students, learners and teachers benefit equally: Knowledge can be imparted flexibly, independent of time and location, without sacrificing interaction and exchange. Blended learning is about dovetailing learning phases in a meaningful way and using different forms of learning effectively.

How does blended learning work?

A typical blended learning concept comprises various learning phases:

Online phases: Learning content is provided via digital media, e.g. videos, computer-based training or quizzes. This phase is asynchronous and customizable.

Face-to-face events: Workshops, lectures or seminars in which content is deepened and applied in a practical way.

Transfer phases: Learners apply what they have learned in their day-to-day work, accompanied by social learning or feedback sessions.

This combination of online and face-to-face learning increases learning success and makes the learning process more sustainable. The learning objectives are clearly pursued through coordinated learning content and recurring reflection.

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Advantages of blended learning

Blended learning offers a number of advantages for companies, organizations and universities:

  • Flexibility: online phases can be accessed at any time and from any location.
  • Scalability: Learning platforms enable parallel learning for large target groups.
  • Motivation: Variety through interactive formats and hybrid forms of learning promotes engagement.
  • Efficiency: fewer face-to-face appointments save time and resources.
  • Practical relevance: Linking theory and application increases learning success.

Disadvantages and challenges

Despite many advantages, there are also some disadvantages and challenges:

  • Technical requirements: Learning platforms and tools must be stable and user-friendly.
  • Supervision effort: Teachers have to coordinate content and supervision.
  • Acceptance: Not all learners are familiar with digital formats.

Blended learning in practice

A practical blended learning model often consists of e-learning modules that are supplemented by face-to-face phases. This model is used, for example, in professional development, sales training or leadership programs.

Onboarding in sales: A new employee starts with online courses on product knowledge and CRM software. In face-to-face events, they train conversation techniques together with colleagues.

Leadership training: Online blended learning starts with digital learning units, followed by virtual classrooms for reflection and application. This form of blended learning is particularly effective when learning objectives are complex and practical.

Tip: Blended learning can be implemented perfectly with modern learning platforms.

Blended learning models at a glance

Different blended learning models can be used depending on the target group and learning objective:

  • A la carte model: learners put together modules themselves.
  • Flipped model: Online phases prepare for face-to-face events.
  • Virtual model: Combination of synchronous learning in the virtual classroom and asynchronous online phases.

These models allow learning to be didactically sound and individually adapted.

Interesting:
According to a study by the U.S. Department of Education, blended learning increases learning effectiveness by up to 24% compared to pure e-learning.

Blended learning has established itself as a powerful learning model that effectively combines digital media and traditional forms of learning. It not only offers many advantages in professional development, but also helps to make learning processes more efficient, flexible and sustainable. Used correctly, it helps to achieve individual learning goals and ensure the long-term transfer of knowledge, both for learners and teachers.

Frequently asked questions

Blended learning means “mixed learning”, i.e. the combination of digital and analog learning formats.

A Learning Management System (LMS), video conferencing tools, e-learning modules and opportunities for interaction (e.g. quizzes, surveys, feedback tools).

E-learning is purely digital. Blended learning combines digital learning with face-to-face or live formats.

Basically yes, especially in distributed teams or when it comes to imparting knowledge efficiently and practically.

Based on KPIs such as completion rates, learner feedback, skills development or practical application on the job.

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