As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, many educators are shifting their classrooms to blended learning. Teachers are using this model to keep their students engaged, productive, and on track with their education.

However, some teachers may not be sure which blended learning model is the best fit for their classroom. This article will discuss several different blended learning models to help teachers find the right one for their students.

Station Rotation

One of the more popular station rotation models involves students completing offline activities in the classroom, then moving to an online learning activity in a virtual lab. This allows students to access the content at a pace that is right for them, and gives teachers the opportunity to offer remediation and enrichment as needed.

When using a station rotation model with remote or hybrid students, it is important to consider how students will know when it’s time for them to move to the next station. This can be accomplished by introducing systems like timers that are large enough for all students to see (and that can be projected on the smartboard), bells or buzzers, and visibly posting groups and the order they will rotate through.

When setting up a virtual station rotation, it is also important to include some form of pre-assessment so that you can determine which students understand the skill, which need more practice, and which require additional support. Tools like Edpuzzle can help with this, and are especially helpful for students learning at home or in a non-traditional classroom.

Lab Rotation

During a lab rotation, students are given a chance to sample different research laboratories before deciding on one. While this is an important part of the process, remember that lab rotations are not a guarantee that you will be accepted into a laboratory. PIs may say no to you for many reasons, including they don’t think your project will be successful or that you aren’t the right fit for their lab.

To ensure you’re making well thought out decisions, it is recommended that you identify at least 5 laboratories that you would like to rotate with. Additionally, you should attend the "faculty pizza talks" which are informal 60-minute presentations/discussions with faculty members about their current research projects. This will provide a broad perspective on the wide range of research topics being explored at BPH. These talks are an opportunity to get a sense of the types of questions being asked and the research methodologies used.

Flex Model

Often referred to as “the backbone model,” this pedagogical strategy gives learners the freedom of choice on their schedules among learning modalities. Most of the educational content for this model is online, and instructors still have a central role in the classroom to provide guidance and one-on-one assistance.

The flex model is best for education programs focused on technology, such as computer language instruction. Independent learners like this approach because they can move as quickly as they want through a course and still have access to the instructor for any questions or clarifications.

To implement the flex model, educational establishments typically need to invest in computer labs or convert classroom layouts to accommodate enough computers for each student. This initial investment is offset by the lower ongoing costs of software and hardware, which can be shared. A digital adoption platform (DAP) can further support and enrich this type of remote learning model by providing learner-instructor interaction and data analytics.

Self-Blend

A student-centered model that leaves a great deal of learning in the hands of students themselves. It’s an ideal choice for those who need to supplement traditional curriculum with online courses, such as students who want to pursue a specialization not available at their school or for those who simply have no time to attend face-to-face classes.

The process is highly personal, so students feel they have the power to achieve their goals – which makes it a powerful educational tool that can also be used by businesses and organizations. This is especially true for project-based learning, where students learn by collaborating with mentors physically and virtually to create and iterate projects that have real-world applications.

The best part is that this blended learning experience offers more than just a little flexibility for those with busy schedules – it’s like having a tutor who understands your strengths and weaknesses, then tailors lessons to your unique style! Plus, teachers play a superhero role, designing engaging online lessons and interactive in-person activities to help you excel.