Springer, Reiher, Sandwich – Does that sound familiar? A few months ago, we presented the most popular models in blended learning here on the blog. Today, I will introduce you to three special forms of these models that have already been successfully used in companies. And the best part: Our designer has created a clear infographic of all models in blended learning. Check out which model fits your continuing education!
Three Questions for Choosing the Right Model in Blended Learning
The idea of blended learning is based on the thought that you should not limit yourself to one method. Only a meaningful combination of traditional face-to-face events and self-directed online phases enables optimal training. Training that fits – to the needs and capabilities of the participants, to the conditions in the company, and to the expert status of the trainer.
That’s the principle of blended learning. How exactly the methods are combined online and offline depends on these conditions. As a trainer or coach, the following questions will help you decide on the right model for your blended learning:
Do you value a personal introduction BEFORE the start of the first online unit?
YES: Springer, Reiher, accompanying Reiher, inverted Sandwich
How many face-to-face events (according to our nomenclature: seminars, webinars, workshops, etc.) do you want to offer?
ONE: inverted Reiher, accompanying Reiher, Sandwich
MORE THAN ONE: Springer, Reiher, inverted Sandwich
How much time should be between the face-to-face events?
LESS THAN A WEEK: Reiher
MORE THAN A WEEK: Springer, accompanying Reiher, inverted Sandwich
THERE IS ONLY ONE FACE-TO-FACE: inverted Reiher, Sandwich
Does the response to these questions already indicate a tendency towards one of the models? If the terms Reiher, Springer, and Sandwich in the context of blended learning models are still unfamiliar to you, I recommend that you first read this article.
Do you already know the basic models? Then let me now introduce you to what the accompanying and inverted special forms mean in detail!
Direct Download of the Most Popular Models

You can find all popular models for blended learning in our overview. Developed from numerous experiences with successful clients, designed by our graphic designer. Download now!

Special Forms of the Most Popular Models in Blended Learning
Springer, Reiher, and Sandwich are the basic models that determine whether you implement your blended learning in a constant switch between offline and online (Springer), in phases one after the other (Reiher), or with a concrete start and end (Sandwich). For these models, there are special forms that you should also consider when choosing an appropriate blended learning:
1. The Inverted Reiher

The inverted Reiher: In this blended learning model, you start with a longer online phase, where you let participants learn basic knowledge on a topic, for example. At the end, a face-to-face event takes place, where all participants are at the same level.
2. The Accompanying Reiher

The accompanying Reiher: In this blended learning model, you do not conclude the training with online units – as with the “typical” Reiher – but with a practical test. This can be, for example, a phone call or an event where you, as the trainer, give the participant final feedback.
3. The Inverted Sandwich

The inverted Sandwich: In this blended learning model, you start and end with (at least one) face-to-face event. In between lies an online phase that should last more than a week.
Infographic: The 6 Most Popular Models in Blended Learning
You can find all blended learning models in the new infographic that our designer created in collaboration with the blink.it editorial team. Tip: You can easily save the image in high resolution with a right-click.

If you have questions about the individual models in blended learning, please feel free to ask us via email!

The Most Popular Models in Blended Learning
Is the infographic too bulky for you? We also created all 6 models as a PDF for you to download!
To the free overview of blended learning models
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