Evaluating What Works in Blended Learning
October 24, 2012
Blended learning鈥攖he mix of virtual education and face-to-face instruction鈥攊s evolving quickly in schools across the country, generating a variety of different models. This special report, the second in an ongoing series on virtual education, examines several of those approaches and aims to identify what is working and where improvements are needed.
- Classroom Technology Blended Learning Models Generating Lessons LearnedBut more research is needed to determine the effectiveness of the evolving models, and to identify which ones work best for which types of students.Classroom Technology Flexibility, Support Build Student IndependenceFlex Academy programs offer online curriculum, with in-class adult support and face-to-face peer interaction.Classroom Technology Florida Virtual School Incorporates Face-to-Face LearningThe country's largest, state-sponsored online school is having some teachers meet in person with students and scheduling field trips in an effort to build blended learning programs.Classroom Technology Calif. District's Blended Initiative Aims to Personalize LearningThe latest evolution in Riverside, Calif., is a program for middle schoolers that requires them to attend school three hours a day, three days a week, and do the rest of their learning online at home.College & Workforce Readiness E-Learning Opens Real-World DoorsStudents in a Grand Rapids, Mich., innovation program blend virtual education and real-world experiences to prepare for college and careers.College & Workforce Readiness Ala. Opens Wide Access to Blended LearningExperts credit the state program for helping increase the number of students taking and passing Advanced Placement exams.Classroom Technology Blended PD Emphasizes Differentiated InstructionNew models for ed-tech training are moving away from a historical emphasis on developing technical skills and toward a broader focus on what educational approaches work best.Classroom Technology L.A. School First in KIPP Network to Embrace Blended LearningTough budget times prompt KIPP Empower Academy to use a blended approach to pursue its mission of improving achievement for students from underprivileged areas.