BLENDED LEARNING
Blended Learning
The Best of Both Worlds
In March 2020 , colleges closed their doors in response to the COVID-19 pandemic , with learning moving exclusively online for most adult learners - although for many this was not their preferred method of study .
This enforced move to remote learning frustrated many learners , as they suddenly lost the weekly opportunity to ask their tutor questions face-toface and meet with classmates . For most courses , exams and assessments were postponed and the result of all of this was that many learners became disengaged with their studies as they realised that remote ( or distance ) learning was not for them .
At Mindful Education , we are believers in blended learning . With a blended learning model , learners enjoy a mix of online lessons and regular face-to-face classes with a tutor . This flexible solution offers learners the opportunity to study at a time and place to suit them , while also providing the advantages of regular in-person interaction with classmates and their tutor .
In July 2020 , we conducted a survey of 6,000 students who had chosen to study a traditional face-to-face course but , due to college closures , had recently been studying exclusively online . When we asked them their preferred study method going forward , over 50 % of respondents stated that they would now prefer to study via blended learning as their main choice in the future .
A Mindful Education blended learning course provides learners with access to a Virtual Learning Environment ( VLE ) where video lectures are available on demand . Learners can
re-watch new concepts and revisit topics they are finding tricky without waiting for face-to-face time with their tutor . On top of this , exercises , interactive case studies and analytical tools help to enhance the learning experience further .
Learners also benefit from regular college classes without having to commit to attending multiple evenings each week . Experienced tutors will discuss and reinforce what has been learnt during online study and are on hand to provide guidance on progress and assessment . Discussion and debate with classmates also help learners apply theories to situations faced in the workplace .
As colleges and training providers reopen , you may also be thinking about whether you would like to continue learning remotely , go back to full face-to-face delivery , or move to a blended learning study method . You should consider which approach best suits you and your work and life commitments . You also need to
think about which approach will help you stay motivated whilst tackling a challenging qualification .
“ Blended learning means I can have a good work-life-family balance . If I didn ’ t study in this way , then I wouldn ’ t be able to do my qualifications .” - Faye McPhillips , Accounting student
If you are interested in studying a qualification using our Online and On Campus blended learning approach then please visit the Mindful Education website to find your nearest provider .
About the author
Mark Mckenna is the founder and Managing Director of Mindful Education , an education technology company who specialise in creating media-rich professional courses and apprenticeships in accounting , management , law and human resources .
Mindful Education deliver their awardwinning courses in partnership with 50 + colleges across the UK through a flexible , blended model .