Online Learning, Hybrid Learning and Flipped Classroom

On the whole, learning is considered to be a lifelong process. Therefore, achieving knowledge should not be neglected. Online atmosphere is changing constantly and it signifies an enormous opportunity for learning. It is very significant to determine how to learn using all accessible communication channels and selecting the ones that best suit a person’s style of filtering the information.

     First and foremost, I would like to explain the terms. According to Allen (2007), the term "hybrid learning”(blended learning) names a model of course design that combines traditional, face-to-face class time with online and out-of-class course work. The replacement of 25% to 50% of in-class time with online and out-of-class work differentiates "hybrid courses" from "Web-enhanced courses," which continue to meet during the normal class hours and use the online component to supplement face-to-face time. Next, flipped classroom is a form of blended learning in which students learn content online by watching video lectures, usually at home, and homework is done in class with teachers and students discussing and solving questions. Teacher interaction with students is more personalized guidance instead of lecturing. This is also known as backwards classroom, inverted classroom, reverse teaching, and the Thayer Method. 

On the other hand, online learning is a method of delivering educational information via the internet instead of in a physical classroom. Online education utilizes the Internet or videoconferencing to create learning communities. Course materials are provided on a Web site and are occasionally found on CD-ROM; email, bulletin boards, forums, and chat rooms are used to interact with other students and teachers.

         These days, online learning, hybrid learning and flipped classroom turn out to be more and more practiced by university and college lecturers. Numerous public and private universities started their online courses with the attractive course outlines and discounts. It symbolizes an easy and comfortable method to attain knowledge in almost every field. It is a form of alternative for people who can’t afford the time and money to take real courses especially those who are working very far from the campus. However, there are many debates and challenges arise on using technology such as competing mindsets; issues of equity, pedagogical challenges; and the transfer from informal to formal learning or vice versa.

         In today's hectic lifestyle, most people have no time to return to school even they have intention to get more degrees for career advancement, job promotion or simply to learn something new. This is where one of the advantages of online education will help these people. Online education is capable in catering us with a flexible learning environment from any location as long as we are offered with Internet connection. Therefore, we can enroll into any online degree program offered by any universities around the world as long as they make their degree program online. With an appropriate time management, we can easily plan our online learning sessions to fit into our busy schedule and follow our own pace of study to complete our degree program.

      Other than that, let me list out some other benefits provided by the online education. First, students will get the opportunity to select learning materials that suits their level of knowledge and interest. Second, it expands knowledge of the Internet and computers skills that will assist learners throughout their lives and careers. Lastly, it builds self-knowledge and self-confidence and encourages students to take responsibility for their learning.

      Let’s look at the negative side of it. One of the disadvantages of online learning is that learners need to have access to a computer as well as the Internet. They also require having computer skills with programs such as word processing, Internet browsers and e-mail to successfully complete the online courses. Without these skills and software it is not possible for the student to thrive in online learning. Thus, learners should be very comfortable using a computer. Slow Internet connections or older computers may make accessing course materials difficult. This may cause the learners to get frustrated and give up. Another disadvantage of e-learning is managing computer files and online learning software. For learners with beginner-level computer skills it can sometimes seem complex to keep their computer files organized. Without good computer organizational skills learners may lose or misplace reports causing them to be late in submitting assignments. Some of the students also may have trouble installing software that is required for the class. In addition, hands-on or lab work is difficult to simulate in a virtual classroom.

      In a nutshell, online learning should be treated as a complement and extension of classical forms of learning. Not even the best online course can completely substitute the personal contact with a teacher, or the human relationships that develop in a group. In my opinion, traditional classes shouldn't be replaced entirely with online learning.