Blended learning has transformed corporate training by combining the best of traditional in-person instruction, with the flexibility of online learning. This approach delivers scalable, engaging, and cost-effective solutions for businesses.
But blended learning is more than just flexible—it’s personal. By tailoring learning paths and blending human interaction with digital tools, it creates impactful, measurable training experiences that move beyond one-size-fits-all.
In this post, we’ll explore the blended learning definition and its unique advantages for corporate training and share practical tips on how to maximize its potential with the right tools.
What is blended learning?
Blended learning is an employee training approach that combines traditional in-person training with online learning. As a hybrid model, it allows you to choose the best training method to meet your goals. It creates an experience that’s both flexible and effective.
The advantages of blended learning are many. Continuous development, boosted employee engagement, and measurable outcomes are just the start.
One of its superpowers? It works for everyone.
The meaning of blended learning goes beyond methodology. It’s about adapting to diverse learning styles so visual, auditory, or kinesthetic learners can thrive. The often overlooked piece of training is the role of learning styles. The jump in learner outcomes is significant when it’s made a priority.
In today’s competitive landscape, any critical edge you can find matters. That’s what blended learning provides. The ability to personalize training not only improves retention but also creates a culture of growth and adaptability within your workforce. It’s a true win-win.
The benefits of blended learning in businesses
Adopting blended learning in your corporate training strategy can transform your teams—how they learn, how they grow, and how they contribute to your business’s success.
Here are five standout benefits of blended learning platforms.
1. Flexibility for employees and trainers
Blended learning is known for its flexibility. Employees can access online training materials on demand. This empowers them to learn at their own pace without the constraints of rigid schedules.
Trainers also benefit from a blended learning approach. Automating repetitive tasks like assessments allows them to focus on in-person sessions that help drive high-impact outcomes.
2. Improved engagement and retention
Blended learning allows for more choice in how to approach each training. Because of this, it is easier to accommodate different types of learners. Personalized learning experiences can now be crafted to meet employees at different stages of understanding. Allowing employees more choices in how and what they learn can keep them motivated and engaged.
Interactive e-learning modules and collaborative in-person activities create a dynamic learning experience. Incorporating features like gamification and multimedia content boosts engagement and knowledge retention.
The outcome is learning that is effective and enjoyable.
3. Scalable training for growing businesses
For businesses scaling rapidly or managing disburse teams, blending learning platforms is a game changer.
With the right tools—like an enterprise LMS—organizations can roll out consistent training programs across multiple locations while customizing content to meet local needs. This ability to scale ensures that training remains effective no matter the size or complexity of your workforce.
4. Measurable outcomes and continuous improvement
Data is king in today’s business landscape. Blended learning platforms allow businesses to track employee progress, pinpoint skill gaps, and refine training programs in real-time. An enterprise LMS takes it a step further. Training efforts and broad business goals are aligned to maximize ROI.
5. Time and cost savings
Training doesn’t have to be a financial burden. The online components of blended learning reduce the need for travel and venue expenses. Reusable digital resources lead to long-term savings. Best of all, these cost benefits come without compromising on training quality. Blended learning is a smart investment for a business of any size.
What are the different models of blended learning?
Blended learning has many different models for you to choose from. These models integrate digital and face-to-face elements. Each one is suited to different training objectives and needs. By understanding these models, you can choose the one that will be most effective in your employee training.
Flipped classroom model
In this model, employees first engage with online content. This could be instructional videos or reading materials, which they do at their own pace. Next, in-person sessions include discussions, practical exercises, or problem-solving activities.
Example: Your company introduces a new software tool. Your staff watches tutorial videos online to understand its features. They then attend a hands-on workshop to practice using the tool in real-world scenarios. They’re able to have group discussions and feedback from an instructor.
Rotation model
You set up different learning stations like online modules, collaborative group work, and individual assignments that employees rotate through. This model allows you to address different learning styles while keeping engagement high.
Example: Your company has a leadership development program. Participants alternate between eLearning courses on leadership theories, group discussions to share experiences, and individual projects to apply concepts.
Flex model
The flex model is a great option when most learning is happening online. Your staff is able to choose their learning materials and pace. This allows for self-directed learning and accommodates diverse learning styles.
Example: When it’s time for compliance training, your staff can access a library of online resources. They can then complete assessments at their convenience. You also have the option for in-person Q&A sessions.
Enriched virtual model
This model is great for remote teams when you want to offer a balanced approach to blended learning. You’ll primarily focus on online learning but can include occasional face-to-face meetings.
Example: A company with dispersed teams that has ongoing training modules might conduct scheduled in-person workshops.
Individual rotation model
Here, training is highly individualized to address their specific needs. Each employee rotates through a personalized set of hands-on, online, and group modules.
Example: A sales team member receives a customized training path. They take online product knowledge courses, have one-on-one coaching sessions, and group role-playing exercises.
A la carte model
Your employees continue their regular work responsibilities with the flexibility to choose additional online courses that interest them.
Example: To supplement their current role, an employee interested in project management takes courses offered by the company to develop the skills for this position.
Online driver model
Online content delivery is the core learning element. Face-to-face instruction supports and enriches it. Digital tools are the primary driver, and expert guidance supplements when needed.
Example: A customer service training program has employees complete comprehensive online modules. They occasionally attend in-person workshops for advanced skill development.
Selecting a model based on your training objectives can help you create personalized and flexible training environments. It enhances learning outcomes while aligning with your strategic goals.
How to create your own blended learning training program
Now that you’re clear on the benefits of incorporating a blended learning strategy, let’s explore how to get started:
1. Gather background knowledge straight from the source
Before designing your program, consult with the experts you have on hand, your training managers. Ask them what’s currently working and where there’s room for improvement.
Post-training feedback is a gold mine of insights. If you’re not already gathering, now is the time to start. Look for patterns and employee feedback to identify gaps and opportunities your blended learning program can address.
2. Clearly define training objectives
Start by establishing clear goals for your training program. What outcomes do you want to achieve? Reverse engineering your plan and set SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound). Ensure every element of your training aligns with your objectives.
3. Select your blended learning model
Review the various blended learning models and identify which ones best suit your organization’s needs. For instance:
- Use the flipped classroom model for technical training requiring foundational knowledge before in-person sessions.
- Apply the enriched virtual model for remote teams that require flexibility.
Choosing the right model will ensure your program is both effective and engaging.
4. Create your training
Develop your program by combining engaging digital content with meaningful in-person interactions. Focus on delivering a balanced mix of instructional videos, interactive eLearning modules, and hands-on sessions. Remember to tailor the content to your employees’ roles and learning styles for maximum impact.
5. Assess your success
Evaluation is critical to measuring the success of any training. Use a combination of assessments, like quizzes and practical tests, and real-world applications. You’re looking for both understanding and retention. This step will help you determine how well employees can apply their knowledge to their roles.
6. Collect post-training feedback
Feedback isn’t just a box to check—it’s a continuous improvement tool. After the training concludes, gather insights from employees about what worked well and what could be improved.
Use this information to refine and enhance future programs, ensuring your blended learning training program stays relevant and effective.
FAQs
- What is blended learning training for business?
Blended learning training for businesses combines the strengths of online and in-person sessions. This combination creates a flexible and scalable approach to workforce development.
The design meets the diverse needs of employees while supporting organizational goals. Blended learning has quickly become an ideal choice for modern workplace training programs.
- What is a blended learning platform in corporate training?
A blended learning platform is a system that enables organizations to deliver hybrid training programs seamlessly.
It provides tools to manage online and in-person training elements, track employee progress, and create personalized learning paths. These platforms keep training efficient and engaging, helping businesses stay in alignment.
- What’s the difference between eLearning vs blended learning?
eLearning and blended learning have some similarities but are distinctly different.
In eLearning, everything happens entirely online. It’s ideal for delivering consistent training to large remote teams. However, it can lack the personal interaction and hands-on experiences that some trainings require.
Blended learning, on the other hand, integrates eLearning and human connection. This hybrid approach is especially effective for complex skills training, team-building exercises, and scenarios where real-time interaction is crucial.
- Why is blended learning important for businesses?
Blended learning equips businesses to:
- Upskill employees with a flexible, tailored approach.
- Deliver training that is both engaging and impactful, keeping employees motivated.
- Use blended learning platforms to track progress and measure training outcomes, ensuring continuous improvement.
The critical role of an enterprise LMS in blended learning
An enterprise LMS can serve as the backbone of a successful blended learning strategy. It offers scalability, efficiency, and personalization that businesses need to thrive.
You can integrate online and in-person training components with an enterprise LMS to deliver impactful learning experiences that meet both employee and organizational goals.
With an enterprise LMS, creating and managing training content becomes seamless. Online modules, video lessons, and assessments are kept in one platform. This provides easy access and consistency.
The system’s powerful tracking and analytics provide real-time insights into performance progress and skills gaps. You can refine your program on the fly.
The automation offered is a game changer. Handling repetitive tasks like assessments and progress monitoring frees up trainers to focus on what they do best. Features like gamification, multimedia integration, and mobile accessibility make learning experiences interactive and enjoyable.
Onboarding and leadership training are just two opportunities for an enterprise LMS to shine. Foundational eLearning allows for self-paced training with in-person sessions to enhance them.
In every scenario, an enterprise LMS ensures that blended learning is efficient, engaging, and aligned with business goals. It’s the ultimate tool for driving organizational success.
Key takeaways
- Blended learning combines in-person and eLearning methods to create flexible, effective corporate training.
- A blended learning platform helps manage hybrid programs, track progress, and personalize learning experiences.
- Pairing self-paced online modules with in-person sessions boosts engagement and retention.
- An enterprise LMS scales blended learning, ensures consistency, and delivers measurable results.
- From onboarding to leadership training, blended learning aligns training with business goals efficiently and cost-effectively.
