The Covid pandemic has changed the face of our world for good and has indeed changed the face of education forever. Many RTOs realised throughout the last couple of year's pandemic that moving their training online is no longer an option but a necessity to thrive in this new world.
Not only will online training increase international enrollments, but local students may also be more attracted to an online training option. Many people want to upskill, so an online learning solution is often more convenient.
So what has been born from the pandemic is an education system that focuses on more of a blended learning approach, that is, a mix of online and face-to-face learning. And the benefits of this to an RTO are quite clear.
The RTOs that jumped on board with online learning at the beginning of the pandemic not only survived but have thrived throughout the last two years and are now set up with the E-learning tools that will enable a blended learning approach to their students moving forward. So, what exactly is Blended Learning?
With blended learning, learner objectives are achieved through a combination of face-to-face and online learning. The amount of each method of delivery in each course may differ. This hybrid or blended learning approach is more than just allowing courses to be accessed online with a computer and internet access. It represents a shift in how trainers and learners interact with the course material.
I think a distinction needs to be made between blended learning and self-paced or distance learning, where students could be at home and are not in a classroom setting. With online learning there isn’t the interaction present between the learner and trainer. Why Blended Learning? Blended Learning is an excellent fit for the VET sector as it requires learners to apply theoretical knowledge in order for them to understand how that concept applies within their work context.
Achieving this with blended learning is simple, including practical workplace activities using online resources. The perfect online solution will allow Assessors, Trainers and Learners to participate thoughtfully in each step of the learning journey while keeping compliance in mind.
An example would be where practical units could be performed offsite and assessed either via live video conferencing or pre-recorded and submitted for assessment.
Here are some tips on how to implement Blended Learning into your RTO 1. A Thoughtful approach to implementing blended learning will achieve the best and most successful experience for learners. Consider each assessment or unit carefully and any different scenarios in which you can support your learners. Seamless and effective technology integration will enhance the learning experience for both learners and trainers.
2. Blended learning doesn’t mean you need a lot of devices or technology. It can mean effectively adopting a few simple tools to assist the desired learning results.
An example of blended learning is for most lessons to be completed in a traditional learning setting in class with a trainer, combined with a few units or components of the course being completed online, outside the classroom. How much you can divide the in-class to online ratio will depend on the course. For instance, for one course, the online part may be minimal, or it may comprise 80% of the course, and only meeting a few times with a trainer to review the completed work. If you would like to learn more about how we can support your RTO, contact us today at 1300 833 424 or email info@rtointelligence.com.au
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