Measuring the quality of blended learning – not an easy task. We present you with an exciting concept that allows you to measure the quality of your blended learning yourself.
Blended learning has been the top topic in the continuing education industry for years. It is no wonder that many professionals in adult education are dealing with this method. Many ideas and approaches arise for the connection of face-to-face and online learning.
I found a particularly interesting approach with the educational innovators: five quality levels with which you can measure the quality of blended learning designs:
I will now summarize in detail how this quality pyramid works for you:
The 5 Levels of Quality in Blended Learning
The five levels of quality in blended learning designs are structured as a pyramid, starting with the lowest level. At the top (Level 5) is the best possible connection of face-to-face and digital learning:
Source: Concept by bildungsinnovator.de / Representation & addition by blink.it
Level 1: Loose Coupling The (sadly still) most common variant: A standardized e-learning is offered before a seminar. Content-wise, there is no connection; often the content overlaps in the course and in the face-to-face appointment.
Level 2: Seminar-Centered Coupling Here, the responsibility for own e-learning content goes to you as a trainer: A welcome video, preparatory materials, or a small follow-up after the appointment frame the seminar appointment.
Level 3: Learner-Centered Coupling Now the participants are in focus: The target group, level of knowledge, and needs are included to establish clear learning objectives. The format (online course or seminar) is selected based on the objectives.
Level 4: Didactic Coupling At Level 4, a perfect intertwining of the components is established: A common thread guides the participants through the different formats. Communication with the participants and motivation are at the forefront.
Level 5: Transfer-Centered Coupling The perfect blended learning: The transfer to the participants' everyday life is the focus! In addition to pure content and a common thread, you actively accompany your participants as a trainer in implementing what they have learned into practice!
The Catch: Think of the Levels Backwards!
An important tip I can share with you from the video: Think of the levels backwards, from top to bottom, when you want to develop a good blended learning design! First, ask yourself what specifically should change in the participants' everyday life – then comes the question of how you can support them – and only at the end do you choose the appropriate format for the content.
Tip: 3 Questions for Trainers and Coaches to Start with Blended Learning:
What should the participants change?
How can I support them?
What is an appropriate format for the content?
My Personal Conclusion: The 5-level quality model is an exciting and well-thought-out approach that you can easily apply in practice to check and improve the quality of your blended learning!
At which level are you with your current (or planned) blended learning concept? Feel free to share it with us in the comments!
