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Also known as hybrid learning, it’s a flexible approach that combines the best of both worlds: online learning tools and resources from the digital world, along with face-to-face interaction and traditional classroom methods from the real world.
In simple terms, it blends online, self-directed learning with in-person sessions guided by a tutor or facilitator. It’s not just about where you learn, but how you learn, and when done right, it can significantly boost your impact and engagement.
Online learning – asynchronous or synchronous?
In-person learning can be mixed with two different types of online learning: synchronous, where everything happens in real-time, such as attending live virtual classes or webinars, or asynchronous, which refers to activities or communication that do not happen in real-time. In the context of learning, asynchronous learning allows learners to access course materials, complete assignments, and engage with content on their own schedule, without needing to be online at the same time as the instructor or other learners.
Adult learning principles and blended learning
Before we explore the impact of blended learning, let’s take a moment to consider some key adult learning principles and how a blended approach supports them in practice.
When designing learning experiences for adults, it’s important to recognise what truly drives engagement and effectiveness. Blended learning, with its mix of online and in-person methods, is uniquely positioned to meet these needs.
Relevance and Intrinsic Motivation
Adult learners need to see the benefits of what they’re learning and how it will help them achieve their personal or professional goals. They are motivated to engage when the content is not only useful but also enjoyable and satisfying.
Blended example:
Online modules can introduce relevant, interactive, real-world scenarios and case studies.
In-person sessions offer space to reflect, ask questions, and link learning directly to personal goals.
Practice and Experience
Learning is most effective when adults have the chance to practice and apply what they’ve learned. Opportunities to receive feedback in a positive way, especially in real-world contexts, are essential for meaningful development.
Blended example:
Simulations or scenario-based online learning allow for safe, hands-on practice.
In-person live workshops or role plays give learners a chance to apply skills and receive timely, constructive feedback.
Control and Choice
Adults value autonomy. They want the freedom to move forward, skip ahead, or decide the pace, order, and sequence of their learning journey. Control over their experience increases motivation and ownership.
Blended example:
Learners can complete online learning at their own pace, revisiting areas they find most relevant…
…while also choosing when and how to engage in live, in-person sessions, group work, or additional resources.
Problem-Oriented and Immediate Impact
Adult learners are drawn to experiences that solve real-life problems and have an immediate, practical impact on their work or personal life. They’re looking for learning that’s directly applicable and results-driven.
Blended example:
Problem-solving tasks or challenges can be introduced through online learning…
… then explored more deeply in collaborative, in-person sessions where learners discuss real issues from their own roles.
A blended approach, based on adult learning principles, not only helps keep learners engaged by giving them more control over their learning but also makes it easier to meet the different ways people learn, ensuring everyone’s needs are more likely to be met.
Examples of Blended Learning
At Wolf Learning Consulting, we collaborate with our clients to design the right blended approach for their specific learning needs. We believe that learning should fit and adapt to the audience, and that means making it:
- Blended
- Personalised
- Impactful
- Accessible
- Immersive
- Experiential
Here are just a few examples of the blended learning strategies we’ve implemented:
- Learners are given a period of time to complete an e-learning course before a day of face-to-face training.
- Learners participate in a webinar and then have a list of assignments to complete.
- Learners follow a series of e-learning modules, with scheduled group discussions led by a trainer to deepen understanding and encourage reflection.
Each approach is tailored to suit the learners, the content, and the desired outcomes, ensuring the experience is as effective as it is engaging.
Blended Learning Is a Growing Trend
Blended learning continues to gain momentum, and the numbers speak for themselves.
A recent annual study1 by the ‘ISTF’ in France asked 450 training professionals, “How will you develop your training offer?” A huge 87% of respondents said they were considering an acceleration towards digital learning.
The following year, they asked the question again and found that the trend is holding strong, with organisations still leaning heavily into blended and distance approaches:
- 56% want to accelerate their use of blended learning
- 21% plan to increase their focus on distance training
This shift highlights a clear direction: organisations are embracing more flexible, learner-centred models that combine the best of digital and in-person experiences.
Impact of Blended Learning on Skills Acquisition
The impact of blended learning on skill development is evident, as the data below demonstrates.
In a recent study2 comparing online, face-to-face, and blended teaching methods for two practical healthcare skills, researchers observed a significant difference in skill acquisition across the three approaches:
- 17% of learners demonstrated skill acquisition through an online-only approach
- 75% demonstrated skill acquisition with a face-to-face approach
- 89% demonstrated skill acquisition through a blended learning approach
These numbers highlight just how powerful a well-designed blended learning experience can be. By combining the flexibility of online learning with the depth of in-person interaction, blended learning truly offers the best of both worlds. The result? More effective and longer-lasting skill development for your learners.
References:
1 https://www.istf-formation.fr/blog/barometre-les-chiffres-2023-du-digital-learning/
2 Forde, C., O’Brien, A., Croitoru, O. et al. Comparing Face-to-Face, Blended and Online Teaching Approaches for Practical Skill Acquisition: A Randomised Controlled Trial. Med.Sci.Educ. 34, 627–637 (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40670-024-02026-8
