What Kind of Blending Makes Blended Learning?

Abstract

The paper focuses on blended learning which is now quite common both in basic and in higher education and which is usually defined as a combination of e-learning and face-to-face instruction. The author explores the main models of blended learning in basic education (K-12), evaluates their benefits and limitations, and reflects on the changes in the current model of teaching activity and standards for teachers. The paper also presents a review of modern studies on the effectiveness of blended learning as compared to distance learning and traditional in-class education. As it is revealed, the role of blended learning is that of a ‘hybrid’ educational innovation which interlocks the past and the future in education.

Keywords

• blended learning
• distance learning
• innovations in education
• information technologies in education
• quality of education
• teaching activity
• educational policy