In digital learning using training platforms, two terms are becoming increasingly common together: Blended Learning and Hybrid Learning. Caution: Confusion risk! You will learn the important difference in this article.
(The original version of this text from 2021 was updated in May 2024.)
As with many terms related to E-Learning, there is no uniform definition for Blended Learning. Recently, in research on digital learning or E-Learning, one often stumbles upon the term Hybrid Learning (or Hybrid Learning). The two terms are often used together or even synonymously. But does Hybrid Learning really mean the same as Blended Learning?
What is Blended Learning?
In general, Blended Learning refers to the mix of different forms of learning. Normally, Blended Learning consists of classic face-to-face learning and a supporting digital self-study phase. The five essential elements of Blended Learning are:
a course instructor
one or more participants
a face-to-face event
a digital learning platform
an online course with learning content
A detailed definition of Blended Learning with various examples can be found on our information page "Blended Learning in Practice"
Blended Learning vs. Hybrid Learning
Some of the features of Blended Learning also apply to Hybrid Learning. However, when we compare both methods directly, it becomes clear that they differ in important points:
| Blended Learning | Hybrid Learning |
Location | The learners are only present live as a whole course during the face-to-face phase and are usually on-site. They complete further learning content independently in the online phase. | The learners are at different locations from the beginning throughout the entire course. Some are directly on-site in the seminar room, while others are connected online. |
Learner | A participant in Blended Learning learns in both the personal face-to-face course and in the independent online phases. | The face-to-face and online learners are different people attending the same course at various locations simultaneously. |
Course instructor | The instructor only facilitates the onsite teaching and provides additional learning content for self-study in the online course. | The instructor teaches both groups (face-to-face and online) simultaneously, for example using video conferencing systems. |
Course structure | The course content is mixed in such a way that a coherent concept emerges. All participants work through this course in a similar fashion. | While the course contents are the same, the participants and their access to the course differ, which can result in varying learning effects. |
Blended Learning:
The learning process is divided into fixed face-to-face and online phases. The online course accompanies the face-to-face event and has different content than the face-to-face. The course alternates between face-to-face and online courses: all participants are either together in person or online. In contrast to Hybrid Learning, the online phases are used to complement personal learning.
Hybrid Learning:
All learning contents are identical in the face-to-face and online courses. Participants can choose their preferred learning method and participate both in person and via the learning platform. The entire course takes place simultaneously in both formats, so the participants are not all together. However, hybrid courses can also contain asynchronous elements, as in Blended Learning. These tasks are mandatory for all learners and must be submitted to the course instructor by a certain deadline.
Both methods face specific challenges:
Challenges in Blended Learning
In Blended Learning, the course instructor faces several challenges. While the entire course is present in the face-to-face phases, participants do not receive direct support from the instructor during the online learning phases. Learners must therefore start processing the learning content on their own within the deadlines. The instructor must trust the independent and self-organized learning of their participants to build on this knowledge in the face-to-face sessions. The digital learning units primarily complement the face-to-face course and help the instructor make more effective use of the time in the face-to-face course. Here, the learning content is divided, not the participants.
Challenges in Hybrid Learning
In Hybrid Learning, the instructor essentially has to run two courses simultaneously, a live and an online seminar. Therefore, it is particularly important that the content is tailored to the varying needs of the participants. The basic prerequisites should be the same for all participants, so specific preparation is necessary for both groups. Exercises that participants are supposed to complete, for example, with a partner, are less suitable for a hybrid course where some learners are alone in front of their screen. An instructor must therefore provide equal attention to both groups. Only then can both groups learn effectively.
Conclusion: Blended Learning or Hybrid Learning?
Blended Learning offers significantly better opportunities compared to Hybrid Learning to accommodate the individual needs of learners. In face-to-face events, course instructors can address questions that may have arisen during the independent online learning phases. In Hybrid Learning, this is not always immediately possible due to the diverse participation options. However, hybrid courses often offer a wide range of additional learning materials, allowing participants to learn more independently.
Blended Learning is often the more sustainable learning method. Hybrid Learning, on the other hand, offers tremendous flexibility to participants. Although both learning methods mix different concepts, they do differ significantly in their structure and focus. Therefore, we conclude that the distinction between Hybrid Learning and Blended Learning is indeed more important than initially thought.
We hope that this article has provided you with some useful information. Have lots of fun and success creating your next online courses!
