Online and Blended Learning

Online and Blended Learning

- Prakash Mani Ghimire

Online Learning

The terms online learning, technological learning, e-learning and distance learning are used synonymously, which refer for learning using various electronic Medias, specially internet and without the physical presence of the instructor. Online learning makes use of network or internet technologies to create, deliver and facilitate learning process.

According to Garrison (2011, as cited in Koc. et.al. 2015), online/e-learning represents a “paradigm shift from the ideal of autonomy and the industrial production of prepackaged study materials characteristic of mainstream distance education. It represents a distinct educational branch with its roots in computer conferencing and collaborative constructivist approaches to learning”

In online learning, all of the learning or a component of learning takes place online, i.e. on the internet. A learning management system may be used to create an online environment in which materials, communication tools and records are located (Tomei, 2010).

In online learning, in most of the cases, the learners can take part from anywhere and on their suitable time. It is totally different from traditional learning because it does not include face-to-face classroom but it can make use of online conferences where the instructor and learners can interact. Online learning uses various channel of communication, e.g. web page, blogs, email, chat, social networking software, video conference, wiki and so on, to present the materials and for learning.

Online learning can be of two types: Synchronous and Asynchronous.

Synchronous, as it relates to online learning refers to events that are time coordinated or simultaneous (Shank, 2006). In synchronous classes, participants even from different locations attend and use the material at the same time. As the instructor and students need to be together at the same time it mimics the traditional classroom. In such class there is lively interaction between the participants and instructor. Various communication channels like, video conference, online virtual meeting, chats, audio interactions can be used in synchronous classes.

Asynchronous classes are just opposite to synchronous classes as the participants and learners do not have fixed time and live interactions. Learners can use the materials in any time and they can respond, but they do not get instant feedback. In asynchronous classes the students and the instructor can be online at various times to read, work at assessments, and work on projects (Tomei, 2010). In such classes web page, blogs, networking software, wiki and other communication channel are used.

Blended Learning

Blended learning refers to a learning environment which makes use of online and face-to-face instruction. The terms blended learning, mixed mode, or hybrid delivery are often used interchangeably (Koc et.al.2015). Blended learning mixes various event based activities, including face-to-face classroom, live e-learning and self paced learning (Tomei, 2010).

Blended learning is the integration of face-to-face and online learning environments. It is more enjoyable than purely online distance learning or purely face to face instruction.  It develops learners' autonomy and helps to increase learners' motivation.

Blended learning refers to the fusion of instruction presented via stored digital media and synchronous support provided by a "live" facilitator. Typical forms of stored digital instruction include, but are not limited to, learning objects, threaded discussion, board entries, streaming media, websites, multimedia sequences, or any type of digital artifact that is relevant to the instructional message. The synchronous support can be provided by facilitator who is physically present when a student assesses the digital instruction or it can be provided via the web in the form of synchronous chat, voice or video conference support (Tomei, 2010).

Blended learning combine traditional learning methods with technological support (Aitken, 2009). It makes use of more channels of communication than does face to face instruction. Communication channels like, blog, chat and instant messaging, electronic files, email, teleconferences, videos, web pages etc. are used for instruction.

References:

Aitken, J.E. (2009). Blended Learning for Adaptation to Needs. Cases on Online and Blended Learning Technologies in Higher Educations : Concepts and Practices. Information Science Reference. New York.

Koc, S. et.al. (2015). Assessments in Online and Blended Learning Environments. Information Age Publishing, Inc. USA.

Shank, P. (2006). The Online Learning Idea Books : 95 Proven Ways to Enhance Technology Based and Blended Learning. John Wiley and Sons, Inc. San Francisco.

Tomei, L.A. (2010). Lexican of Online and Distance Learning. Rowman and Little Field Education. London, UK.