In the ever-evolving world of learning and development, one of the latest terms to join the growing glossary is Hybrid Learning. Because it is new on the scene, it is sometimes used incorrectly. I’ve seen several articles over the past year where authors mistakenly use it interchangeably with Blended Learning. This has prompted me to write an article to outline the definitions of and the differences between Hybrid Learning and Blended Learning.
What is Blended Learning?
Blended Learning combines different learning modalities. A blended learning program might have an in-person classroom component, a virtual classroom session, a pre-work eLearning course, articles to read, coaching sessions, or a discussion board. This approach allows the learners to benefit from both in-person experiences and the flexibility of online learning. Blended learning with pre and post classroom instruction promotes continuous engagement and layered learning experiences. Blended learning has been around for decades and is utilized by most instructional designers today.
What is Hybrid Learning?
Hybrid Learning differs greatly. Hybrid Learning is the new paradigm where facilitators must facilitate to both in-person participants and virtual participants attending on a platform like zoom at the same time. This model has brought new challenges to facilitators. The contract trainer is challenged with ensuring that all participants receive the same instruction at the same time, regardless of their location. This new paradigm in learning has required that facilitators and contract trainers develop new skills to engage all learners effectively.
Key Differences:
- Simultaneity: Hybrid Learning occurs in real-time, with learners either participating in-person or online. Blended learning involves separate face-to-face and online components. The online components don’t happen at the same time.
- Technology: Both approaches leverage technology, but the technologies utilized differ. Blended learning leverages asynchronous learning technology such as courses built in Articulate. Hybrid learning utilizes synchronous learning tools like Adobe Connect, Zoom, or WebEx.
Benefits and Challenges:
Both Hybrid Learning and Blended Learning have unique benefits and challenges.
Blended Learning Benefits:
Blended Learning includes a structured learning path and varied activities to keep learners engaged. It includes the opportunities for self-paced learning which provides more freedom to the learners. It also can include opportunities for discussion and application exercises to further encourage learning transfer.
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Blended Learning Challenges:
A great blended learning program involves careful planning and monitoring to ensure all participants complete the necessary prework for the program. It can also be very limiting for the participants in terms of scheduling.
Hybrid Learning Benefits:
The benefits of hybrid learning are all for the participants. Participants can attend without travel if desired. Virtual participants can engage in the same interactions as in-person attendees if done correctly.
Hybrid Learning Challenges:
Hybrid learning has all the challenges associated with virtual training such as technology issues, lack of engagement, and lack of learner technology skills. But it also adds additional challenges such as balanced interactivity with in-person learners, connectivity, visuals like flipcharts, sound, and classroom materials.
There are costs involved in running Hybrid Learning such as special cameras, speakers, and microphones. It is recommended to have an additional monitor to view the remote participants in addition to the screen you will be using in the room to display. Hybrid learning requires more time to design and plan. It’s not the same as just having a classroom training with some folks attending virtually. Specific engagement strategies and facilitator tools must be designed that will allow both the in-person and remote participants to engage equitably.
“While there is an initial investment in technology, long term there is the cost savings of not having to fly in and provide room and board for some participants so there can be significant ROI.” – David Adelman – Certified Virtual Facilitator
Understanding the specific challenges of hybrid learning is critical to preparing for success. If the facilitators on your team have not dealt with the challenge of a hybrid learning classroom, you might consider bringing in an expert contract trainer. TrainingPros has many facilitators and contract trainers skilled in negotiating the difficulties of a hybrid classroom.
When you have more projects than people™, let TrainingPros find you the right contract trainer to start your project with confidence. Schedule a consultation today.
