Blended learning, a pedagogical approach integrating online and face-to-face instruction, has become increasingly prevalent in educational settings. This model offers the flexibility and accessibility of online learning combined with the social interaction and direct instruction of traditional classrooms (McKenna et al. 2020, Kumar et al. 2021, Dakhi et al., 2020). However, the success of blended learning hinges not only on the design of the learning environment but also on students’ ability to effectively navigate this multifaceted approach. This necessitates a shift in focus towards learning strategies; the processes and techniques learners employ to acquire, process, and retain information.
A learning strategy is an individual’s way of organizing and using a particular set of skills to learn content or accomplish other tasks more effectively and efficiently in academic and non-academic settings (Byrne, 2020). Chen (2016) in his research has mentioned that in recent years student use of learning strategies has been evolving, now it encompasses factors like aptitudes, learning styles, technology, implementation ability, and motivation. This could be associated with the fact that now students have many choices of completing their studies in many different delivery modes namely blended learning, online learning, hybrid learning and more.
The learning strategies in a blended learning environment compared to traditional learning environments are different due to self-directed learning, collaborative learning, increased flexibility along with personalized learning and utilization of various educational technologies that require digital literacy.
Blended learning improves students’ autonomous learning ability (Chiang, 2020). In a blended learning environment learners require to be more self-autonomous and be independent with their own learning. When learners use strategies which empower self-directed learning it allows them to set their own learning goals, monitor their own study progress, adjust the self-learning study strategies to improve the learning performance. Moreover, these learners become active participants in shaping their lifelong learning skills that prepares them for success in dynamic learning environments.
Synchronous and asynchronous learning activities in the blended learning environment require learners to apply collaborative learning strategies. For instance, learners might have to contribute to a peer feedback session via forum discussion session or work in a team to complete a problem-based scenario. If the learners don’t utilize effective collaborative learning strategies in these learning experiences, they will face hindrances in achieving academic success.
The increased flexibility of learning where the learners can use their own pace to engage in the learning materials might create both opportunities and challenges. The learners should effectively manage their learning time to meet the deadlines of both synchronous and asynchronous learning activities. When the learners use time effectively, learners will be able to balance their academic responsibilities with other personal commitments which will lead to more productive learning experiences.
Students in the blended learning environment utilized pre-class material review, collaborative activities like case studies, problem-solving, technology-assisted tools (Kahoot, Mentimeter, Padlet, Google Doc), pre-recorded lectures, and learning trails (Tang & Chaw, 2020). Where diverse educational technologies are integrated into the learning experiences in a blended learning environment, learners who are equipped with digital literacy skills are more likely to achieve greater than the learners who lack these skills. Learners with proficiency will be able to navigate and engage the online content in the online learning platform, participate in online discussions, produce digital content such as PPT, videos, podcasts, blogs etc, and evaluate the accuracy of the online learning resources available to them.
In conclusion, the effective implementation of learning strategies within blended education environments plays a crucial role in empowering students to achieve academic success. By fostering self-regulated learning, promoting active engagement with online resources, and encouraging collaboration and communication, educators can equip students with the necessary skills to thrive in these dynamic learning settings. It is essential for institutions and instructors to provide explicit instruction and support in developing these strategies, ensuring that students are adequately prepared to navigate the complexities of blended learning.
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