7 Benefits of Mixing Online and Traditional Learning

As the world starts getting back to normal, a lot of colleges and universities begin to think about returning to the traditional form of studying. The last year of the COVID-19 pandemic has taught us a lot of important lessons. For example, more people now appreciate the value of their time and the opportunities of technology in learning.

A lot of students are not ready to leave the comfort of their own home and get back to their learning process offline. Some are afraid that the threat of catching the virus is not over. Others have already adjusted their lives to online studies. Also, it seems that transferring the educational process to the Internet has also benefited some teachers as well.

Experts say that the world should be prepared to come back from the online world into offline in the nearest future. But pupils already spend a lot of time studying on the Internet when they use an online essay service or do research for an assignment. Of course, there is a chance that universities will adopt a mixed approach and combine online and traditional learning.

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What Are the Types of Learning at College?

Before diving into the advantages of mixed education, let's get to know the difference between different types of studying processes:

• the traditional type where every student and teacher has to be physically present in a classroom;
• the online type where all studies are completed online;
• B-learning, or blended type, which is an optimal plan for the future;
• the flipped type where students take charge of their own education.

Even though it might be too early to talk about the flipped classroom model, blended studies have already become a reality. Who knows, maybe in 10 years, all students will get their diploma on the Internet! So, here are 7 benefits of mixing online and traditional learning!

Less Time Spent on Commuting

Even though a lot of graduates live on college grounds, some choose to commute to school every day. Online learning is a perfect option for those who can't be present at every lesson for some reason. Without a doubt, you will appreciate the free time that opens up for your studies and hobbies instead of sitting on a bus for an hour doing nothing!

It's Cheaper

If a mixed model of education becomes a reality for colleges, maybe the cost of tuition will go down for the graduates. This is completely justified, as you don't have to live on campus, go to school, and physically attend classes. Teachers will also spend more time at home instead of sitting in big classrooms with the students who are always sleepy.

Improved Communication

Some say that teachers pay the most attention to their pupils when they communicate in person. Yet, there are a lot of shy students who don't want to raise their hand in class or speak up in front of other people. In this case, the Internet is way more comfortable for sharing your questions or concerns.

Unlimited Access to Classroom Materials

Today, most colleges and universities have their own portals with assignments, books, and other important stuff. Not all students can access them at school though, as many teachers still don't like laptops or phones during lessons. With mixed learning, more materials will have to be published online, so pupils can access them anywhere anytime.

Better Communication Between Children and Parents

Okay, this point is not connected to only college students. But if blended classrooms become a reality, even younger children can stay home more. Parents will certainly appreciate more time that they can spend with their kids, helping with their homework and other school problems.

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Students Become More Self-Sufficient

This is a benefit that will prove to be useful over time. Young people don't usually have a lot of responsibility when it comes to learning, maybe because schools have a lot of controlling factors. Online classes create a sense that a person is free and busy at the same time. After some time, pupils can create their own schedules together with their teachers!

Improved Digital Skills

This pandemic has proven that not everybody in education can manage the amount of work that is done online today. Many teachers will have to come to terms with the times and improve their technical skills with e-learning. Students will also benefit from this and take these talents to their future jobs!

Takeaway

The best thing about a mixed classroom is that there is no one-size-fits-all situation. Some schools are strict about their schedule. At the same time, e-learning can accommodate every person with their problems. Maybe in the future, this will become standard for colleges across the world. But for now, all we can do is be prepared!