A topic in teaching science
Blended learning refers to a way of organising teaching and learning through a combination of face-to-face (sometimes represented as F2F) sessions and online activities. Blended learning can be considered a pedagogy.
Read about pedagogy
Blended learning may be a deliberate choice of approach, or a pragmatic option (for example, for learners based some distance from an institution, or for those in full-time employment).
Blended learning is usually supported by some kind of learning management systems or virtual learning environments. These are web-based sites that may provide a platform for learning resources and activities (such as group work from different locations), as well as offering administrative support (such as submitting assignments).
Student choice, differentiation, personalisation
The on-line components may potentially provide individualisation of a learning (offering different options and routes through a course) as well as some flexibility in when course members can study as well as. Activities that different course members can undertake at different times are known as asynchronous, but there may also be synchronous on-line activities (such a tutorial group where a tutor meets virtually with a group of students).
Blended learning systems can support 'flipped learning' by shifting much of the presentation of new information to the on-line components,
Read about flipped learning
The topic will be treated in more detail in a book being prepared for the RSC Advances in Chemistry Education series.
