Springer, Reiher, Sandwich – Does that sound familiar? A few months ago we introduced the most popular models of Blended Learning here on the blog. Today I will present to you 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 training needs!
Three Questions for Choosing Your Suitable 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 sensible integration of traditional in-person events and self-directed online phases allows for optimal training. Training that fits – to the needs and abilities of the participants, to the conditions in the company, and to the expertise of the trainer.
So much for the principle of Blended Learning. How exactly the methods are intertwined in online and offline depends on these very conditions. As a trainer or coach, the following questions can help you decide on the right model for your Blended Learning:
Do you value a personal acquaintance BEFORE the beginning of the first online session?
YES: Springer, Reiher, accompanying Reiher, inverted Sandwich
How many in-person 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 there be between the in-person events?
LESS THAN A WEEK: Reiher
MORE THAN A WEEK: Springer, accompanying Reiher, inverted Sandwich
THERE IS ONLY ONE IN-PERSON EVENT: inverted Reiher, Sandwich
Does answering these questions already indicate a tendency towards one of the models? If you are unfamiliar with the terms Reiher, Springer, and Sandwich in connection with models for Blended Learning, I recommend that you first read this article.
Do you already know the basic models? Then I will now introduce to you what the accompanying and inverted special forms mean in detail!
Special Forms of the Most Popular Models in Blended Learning
Springer, Reiher, and Sandwich are the basic models that determine whether you design your Blended Learning in a continuous alternation of offline and online (Springer), in phases consecutively (Reiher), or with a specific start and end (Sandwich). There are special forms for these models that you should also consider when choosing a suitable Blended Learning:
1. The Inverted Reiher
The inverted Reiher: In this model for Blended Learning, you start with a longer online phase, during which you let participants learn foundational knowledge about a topic. A final in-person event takes place, where all participants are on the same page.
2. The Accompanying Reiher
The accompanying Reiher: In this model for Blended Learning, you do not conclude the training with online units – as with the "typical" Reiher – but with a practical test. This could be a phone call or an event where you provide the participant with final feedback as the trainer.
3. The Inverted Sandwich
The inverted Sandwich: In this model for Blended Learning, you start and end with (at least one) in-person 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.
