With blended learning, you reach the next level of training and coaching. The method: Combine traditional face-to-face learning with e-learning and reap the benefits of both forms of learning. In the blog article, you will learn the definition of blended learning and other terms you should know.
Definition: Blended Learning
“In blended learning, the very different forms of learning are intertwined and brought together into one unit in such a way that it is possible to incorporate the advantages of each learning form and to compensate for the disadvantages of the other learning form.”
This is the definition of blended learning formulated by the Association of European Blended Learning Actors e.V. (blended-learning-network.eu). It clearly illustrates the complexity and sophistication of the method: With blended learning, you work like an inventor who connects two already existing things in such a way that the mistakes on both sides are removed and something new emerges.
The exact way in which the two forms of learning are intertwined looks very different in practical implementation. You can find more about the most popular blended learning models and their use in coaching, further education, and other forms of learning on our detailed information page about Blended Learning in Practice.
Blended Learning vs. Integrated Learning
If you search Google for a definition of blended learning, you will find a Wikipedia entry on “Integrated Learning” at the top of the list. For two reasons, we prefer the English term “blended learning” for our definition:
The term “blended learning” is more commonly used in the professional world than “integrated learning.”
With “integrated learning,” there can easily be confusion with “integrative learning concepts,” which have more to do with social inclusion.
Additionally, at the top of the relevant Wikipedia entry, there is a note that this page is incomplete. We see that the search for a clear definition of blended learning is not that simple.
Addendum: The Wikipedia article has not yet been further completed as of today. The note about missing information can still be found in the article. (As of February 2021)
Face-to-Face Learning + E-Learning = Blended Learning?
The above-mentioned definition of blended learning only refers to “very different forms of learning.” In the education sector, this refers to the intertwining of e-learning and traditional face-to-face learning. However, for this classification, you again need clear definitions of e-learning and face-to-face learning – further down this page, you will find an overview of brief definitions of these terms.
The Problem with the Term “E-Learning”: Not every learning-related event that takes place online is automatically e-learning! For example, webinars are online but also dependent on the presence of the participants – they usually take place at fixed times.
Classifying blended learning into online and offline phases does not capture the essence of the method. A better classification is into presence and absence, as presence fundamentally means only being present. Therefore, we include all synchronously occurring events under the term face-to-face learning.
Thus, the formula “Face-to-Face Learning + E-Learning = Blended Learning” works under the assumption that you do not equate e-learning with “everything that takes place online.” In this context, e-learning usually refers to a phase that occurs independently of time, in which the participant learns independently using online resources. Therefore, a clearer formula definition for blended learning would be:
Blended Learning = Face-to-Face Learning + online-supported self-learning phase
Overview: Event Formats in Blended Learning
We have already seen that the event format “webinar” is sometimes difficult to categorize into “e-learning” and “face-to-face learning.” Which terms should therefore belong more to one category or the other according to the definition? The following table provides a rough overview:
Typically Face-to-Face | Typically E-Learning |
Workshop | Online-supported self-learning phase |
Seminar | Online courses |
Webinar | Webcast |
Live Coaching | Online support |
Face-to-Face | asynchronous |
Definition: Other Terms Related to Blended Learning
With the definition of blended learning, you already have a good basic understanding of the method of intertwining face-to-face learning and e-learning. Once you dive deeper into this topic, you will encounter further technical terms that are often mentioned in connection with blended learning.
Below, I provide you with a brief overview of the essential terms – each with a short definition and a typical example:
Definition of Face-to-Face Learning
We understand face-to-face learning as a form of learning where participants are present together at a specific time. In the definition of blended learning, face-to-face learning is a key component alongside e-learning.
Example: Twelve participants and one trainer take part in the seminar “Competency Development” on May 24 from 8 AM to 4 PM and meet face-to-face in Darmstadt.
Definition of E-Learning
We understand e-learning as a form of learning in which participants determine the time and place of their learning in a highly self-directed manner and access online content using digital devices. In the definition of blended learning, e-learning is usually a core component alongside face-to-face learning.
Example: Forty-two participants work individually and at their own pace on online content related to “competency development,” which the trainer previously created for everyone using a learning software.
Definition of Microlearning
We understand microlearning as a form of learning where the big picture is divided into as many small learning units as possible.
Example: The competency development trainer uploads fifteen short learning units to his online platform, for which participants need no longer than five minutes each. These learning units might be explanatory videos or quiz questions. In the definition of blended learning, microlearning is a sensible concept for successful e-learning components.
Definition of Webinar
By webinar, we understand a seminar that takes place online (web seminar). Like a typical seminar, a webinar should be designed to be interactive and occur live. Note: In the definition of blended learning, the webinar falls into the category of “face-to-face learning.” The mere transmission of a lecture, where no presence occurs, is called webcast.
Example: Thirty participants and two trainers meet online on May 24 from 8 AM to 4 PM in the webinar “Advanced Competency Development” and communicate via chat and webcam.
Definition of Just-in-Time Learning
We understand just-in-time learning as a form of learning where the classic sequence of teaching and learning is reversed: First, participants independently develop basic knowledge, and then the trainer can proceed with building content with the entire group at the same level.
Example: The thirty participants of the training “Competency Development” prepare themselves independently and at their own pace two months before the face-to-face seminar. They use an online platform that the trainer previously filled with concise content for them. By the end of this online phase, all thirty participants have internalized the basics and begin the face-to-face phase with specific questions and ideas.
Your Benefits and Your Start in Blended Learning
Now you have learned some definitions of the most important terms related to blended learning. As a trainer, you gain the following advantages from this method of intertwining face-to-face learning and e-learning:
You gain a unique selling proposition
You gain a new revenue stream
You gain new customer groups
You gain measurability
You gain reusability
You gain flexibility
You gain media diversity
With the definition of blended learning and all other essential terms, you have already taken a first step towards the next level of your training!
