This document discusses definitions of blended learning and explores different perspectives on what constitutes blended learning. It notes that there is no single agreed-upon definition, but identifies some common themes in definitions, including thoughtfully integrating classroom and online learning, and combining different modes of delivery, teaching methods, and learning styles. The document also examines narrow versus open definitions and whether blended learning refers to integration of methods at the same time or over time.

1. Introduction:
WHAT IS BLENDED LEARNING?
Dr. Jyri Manninen
University of Helsinki
Palmenia Center for Continuing Education
www.helsinki.fi/palmenia

2. “Blended learning is replacing "elearning" as the next big thing.
Blended learning programs are
perhaps the highest impact, lowest
cost way to drive major corporate
initiatives.” (American text book)

3. Blended Learning?
• origin of the term in the USA…
•
•
•
•
No clear single definition available
… and no clear common understanding either?
difficult to translate in different languages
Alternative names:
–
–
–
–
mixed learning
hybrid learning
blended e-learning
”melted learning” (in Finnish)

4. Blended Learning?
• the newest consult-driven x-hype?
• ”next big thing” replacing e-learning?
• one mode of delivery among many others?
• new innovative way to combine face-to-face and
web-based learning?
• ”that’s how we have always done!”
• new habit to mix whatever teaching and learning
methods?
• Outstanding pedagogical innovation?
• the only way of learning in the future!?

5. Definitions
• “the thoughtful integration of classroom
face-to- face learning experiences with
online learning experiences”
• “Blended learning combines online with
face-to-face learning. The goal of blended
learning is to provide the most efficient and
effective instruction experience by
combining delivery modalities”.
• “Blended learning - mixed mode or hybrid learning is the integration of face-to-face
(F2F) learning with online learning
activities”

6. Definitions (2)
• "a solution that combines several different
delivery methods, such as collaboration
software, Web-based courses, EPSS, and
knowledge management practices”
• “learning that mixes various event-based
activities, including face-to-face classrooms,
live e-learning, and self-paced instruction.“
• “Blended learning is the effective combination
of different modes of delivery, models of
teaching and styles of learning”

7. Definitions (3)
• Blended learning is the combination of
multiple approaches to pedagogy or teaching.
For example:- self-paced, collaborative or
inquiry-based study (Wikipedia)
• ”a mix of different didactic methods and
delivery formats”

8. b without e?
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
(Wikipedia)
Classroom based audio-tape resources (language
laboratories);
Auditorium multimedia visual resources (movie projectors,
slideshows, VCRs);
Textual resources: textbooks, exercise books
Home-learning resources (video & audio recordings);
Blackboard and whiteboard resources, including high-tech
"printing whiteboards" and "online whiteboards";
Demonstration resources, including "museum exhibits",
"laboratory experiments", live theatre, historic re-enactment,
hands-on workshops, role-playing, etc;
Non-instructional education resources, such as examination,
quizzes, invigilation, test-grading, etc.

9. Definition ”families”
1. Blended Learning as face-to-face classroom
teaching combined with some form of technology
based distance learning
2. Blended Learning as new pedagogical model, which
combines the best parts of face-to-face and online
learning
3. Blended Learning as a combination of different
learning environments (classroom, work placement,
project work)
4. Blended learning as a means to introduce modern
learning theories into Higher Education.

10. Definition ”families”
1. combining or mixing web-based technology to
accomplish an educational goal;
2. combining pedagogical approaches (‘e.g.
constructivism, behaviourism, cognitivism’) to
produce an optimal learning outcome with or
without instructional technology;
3. combining any form of instructional technology
with face-to-face instructor-led training; and
4. combining instructional technology with actual job
tasks.

11. e-Learning
b-Learning
or
Single malt whisky
multiform delivery mode
many bottles of whisky
Blended whisky
Port wine
(matured blend of alcohol
and cheap wine)

12. Summary
• Narrow versus Open definitions
– ”blend of web based learning and f-t-f learning” vs.
”anything can be blended, use of technology is not
necessary”
• ”Same time” integration vs. integration over time?
– ”technology integrated into f-t-f setting” vs. ”f-t-f  home
study period  web based resources  f-t-f seminar”

13. Summary (2)
• Point of view and starting point?
– e-learning is made ”more human” by adding some
f-t-f elements vs.
– f-t-f learning is boosted by making use of relevant
ICT tools
• Use of technology doesn’t make any teaching
process pedagogically better automatically
– b/e/m/x- learning can be used in many ways
– the teachers has to take care that the process is
pedagogically sound

14. B-Learning resources:
• Garrison, R. & Kanuka, H. (2004). Blended
learning: Uncovering its transformative
potential in higher education. Internet and
Higher Education. 7(2004). P. 95-105.
• Levonen, J., Joutsenvirta, T. & Parikka, R.
2006. Blended Learning – katsaus sulautuvaan
yliopisto-opetukseen. Piirtoheitin 1/06.
www.valt.helsinki.fi/piirtoheitin/sulautus1.htm