Provided courtesy of the First Sloan Consortium Invitational Workshop on Blended Learning and Higher Education, hosted by the University of Illinois at Chicago, April 26-28, 2004.
The authors give insights into introducing blended (hybrid) learning on their campus. Flexibility is the key stressed in this article. A wide variety of approaches can be taken to achieve the desired educational outcomes.
An introduction to blending courses including definitions of terms, models, how-tos, debate.
The authors highlight the inquiry of the University of Calgary into increase their learning effectiveness in a cost-effective way. Blended learning is examined as one method of enhancing learning through a "multiplier effect" of combining the strengths of face-to-face and Internet based learning.
The authors examine a range of blended methods in both the educational and business realms. Useful charts diagram a matrix of approaches. Excellent tips and recommendations are included. A brief bibliography of additional reading is appended.
The author uses Badrul Kahn's Octagonal Framework chart to examine aspects of blended learning. A variety of blends are examined. Examples are drawn from various universities.
Although the paper takes a corporate approach, it is premised on the same valued principles as higher education: focusing on learning objectives and responsive to a variety of learning styles. A wide range blends and their relative strengths are described. A nice appendix of delivery technology mapping is included.
The author provides a good, brief overview of the movement toward blended learning. Examples at several institutions are given. The author makes a good case that it may not be the "blendedness" that makes a difference, rather it is the inherent re-evaluation of the content and delivery that makes the fundamental difference.