Effective Learning - Blended Learning and Virtual Learning Environment

The advancement of technology has enhanced our way of living in such a way that everything will be coming with options for everyone. People can shop with different options – walk thru, online, etc. They can book flights, schedule activities, basically every single task. Even learning has different options nowadays as compared to the homogenous classroom environment each of the old generation experienced before. Modern teaching methods are currently doing away with the same old school way of textbooks and lectures but rather, they are innovating tasks for more student interaction.

Blended learning is a diversified approach in learning which takes place with different media.

• In class learning – a group method with a teacher or facilitator in traditional classroom scenario or other flexible places with conducive atmosphere for learning (garden, museum, parks, etc.)

• Online learning – learning through the internet. The students browse over different assigned sites, interact, play, and learn to improve their academic aptitude. Consultation with teachers online is also available.

• Independent learning – a self-directed method accomplished through skill-honing assignments from the teacher. As the most flexible method, it gives students the opportunities to pursue their areas of interests.

Advantages of Blended Learning

The diversification of means of learning makes it more effective and lively. This atmosphere creates more interests and interaction. Benefits in curriculum include self-paced, easier instructed classroom delivery, and improved strand of instruction. These benefits are suitable for self-interested and enthusiastic individuals who wanted to learn.

The varied tools and diversity of approaches balance over the different sources of methodologies making a comfortable training and varied concentration levels over different learning activities. Scheduling of learning classes is also possible reducing travel and cost spent for materials.

Disadvantages of Blended learning

Along with the merits, there are also a few disadvantages of blended learning. Lack of interest and poor learning habits amongst the learners are the major drawbacks. Having slow internet connection, unavailability of teachers on call, and lack of motivation and initiation are other minor drawbacks for this method of learning.

Virtual Learning Environment

A Virtual Learning Environment (VLE), also known as Managed Learning Environment (MLE), is a set of tools for both teaching and learning designed to improve the students’ learning experience by incorporating computers and the use of Internet in the process. The principal components include:

• Curriculum mapping – breaking the curriculum into different chapters and sections for easier assignment and assessment.

• Electronic communication – chat, email corresponding, threaded discussions, or web publishing.

• Internet links - related to outside curriculum resources.

• Student tracking – identification of a particular group of students to support research on student retention.

• Online support - providing computer network, internet, phone and technology consulting

VLE users are assigned IDs – for teachers and students. Teachers can access student screens and additionally has the user rights to create or alter curriculum content and track the students’ performance.

An effective method of blended learning, one has the advantages of managing his own time and interests with VLE, also a well-monitored teaching strategy that gives the learner the freedom to learn at his own pace.

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