Blended Learning

Blended learning, also referred to as hybrid learning, is an educational approach that combines traditional face-to-face classroom methods with online digital media and activities. Rather than replacing in-person instruction, blended learning integrates the best features of both environments to create a more flexible and effective learning experience. In a typical blended course, students may attend lectures in a physical classroom while also completing assignments, participating in discussions, or accessing supplemental materials through an online platform. The ratio of in-person to online interaction can vary depending on the instructional goals and the needs of the learners.

The underlying pedagogical rationale for blended learning lies in its capacity to support a wide range of learning styles and to enable more personalized, self-paced instruction. Online components can enhance engagement by delivering interactive content, multimedia presentations, quizzes, and collaborative activities that allow students to apply concepts in practical contexts. Teachers can use digital learning analytics to monitor student progress in real time, allowing for targeted interventions and differentiated instruction. Additionally, by offloading some of the traditional lecture-based content to online formats, classroom time can be repurposed for more interactive, student-centered activities such as group work, problem-solving, and hands-on projects.

Research on blended learning consistently demonstrates its effectiveness when compared to both traditional classroom instruction and fully online courses. Studies indicate that blended learning can lead to equal or better academic outcomes, greater student satisfaction, and improved retention rates. The model supports the development of digital literacy and self-regulation skills while maintaining the social and communicative benefits of face-to-face interaction. As educational technology continues to evolve, blended learning offers a scalable, adaptable framework that can be tailored to a variety of institutions, disciplines, and learner populations, making it an increasingly prominent and sustainable choice in modern education. 

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