Blended Learning

Blended learning, also known as hybrid learning, is an educational model that strategically combines traditional face-to-face classroom instruction with online and digital learning experiences. This approach leverages the strengths of both modalities: it provides the personal interaction, immediacy, and social context of in-person education, while also incorporating the flexibility, personalization, and scalability of online learning platforms. In a typical blended learning environment, students might attend lectures or discussions in a physical classroom and then complete assignments, watch instructional videos, participate in online forums, or take quizzes using a learning management system outside of class time.

The pedagogical foundations of blended learning emphasize learner-centered approaches. By integrating online elements, educators can provide differentiated learning pathways, catering to students’ individual pace and style. Online resources enable frequent formative assessment, immediate feedback, and opportunities for self-directed learning. Meanwhile, face-to-face sessions support collaborative activities, practical exercises, and the development of interpersonal skills. Common blended learning models include the “flipped classroom,” where students review content online and engage in discussion or problem-solving during class; rotational models, where students alternate between online and offline stations; and enriched virtual models that blend occasional in-person meetings with ongoing digital instruction.

Research over the past decade underscores the effectiveness of blended learning. Meta-analyses by educational organizations, such as the U.S. Department of Education, have reported that students in blended classrooms tend to perform better, on average, than those in fully traditional or fully online settings. This reflects the synergy of personalized, self-paced digital activities with the benefits of synchronous, human interaction. However, successful implementation requires thoughtful instructional design, technological infrastructure, and support for both educators and students to navigate the blended environment. As education continues to evolve in the digital age, blended learning stands out as a versatile, evidence-based approach that meets the needs of diverse learners and prepares students for lifelong learning in a rapidly changing world. 

PhDr. Pavel Bartoš, LL.M., DBA (Evropská akademie vzdělávání / European Academy of education)