Blended e-learning
 Blended
learning. It's a common term, but does it have a common definition? If
there is one, it may be this: "integrated training delivered via a
variety of media to most effectively meet the learning objectives of
the program and accommodate the learning styles of the audience." So
what is blended e-learning? Just this: "integrated training delivered
via a variety of electronic media to most effectively meet the learning
objectives of the program and accommodate the learning styles of the
intended audience." Asynchronous and synchronous: Separate worlds As a training professional, you may be well-versed in the variety of e-learning interventions available. For example, you may already be implementing asynchronous e-learning programs, such as Web or CD-based tutorials, to present training information, create scenarios, and allow learners to apply and assess their knowledge. Monitored discussion boards are another form of asynchronous e-learning, in that they can support the informal exchange of knowledge and practical experience among members of your sales force. Or, you may be implementing synchronous e-learning programs such as "webinars" (facilitated training sessions delivered over the Internet or corporate intranet) or structured chat rooms. While webinars allow multiple participants to interact electronically at a scheduled time on a particular date, chat rooms allow personnel who are not located close to each other to informally share knowledge and develop a sense of group identity and teamwork. Most agree that these different e-learning programs have specific strengths in terms of what they provide to learners. Given the specific strengths of both asynchronous and synchronous e-learning methods, is there a way to combine them to gain the best of both at the same time? The answer is yes. Bringing the two worlds together Using available software tools and technologies, it is now possible to create an integrated e-learning experience. Imagine this: The e-learning event starts with a synchronous, webinar-like session, which involves an online, facilitated introduction to set the stage. During the introduction, participants introduce themselves, the agenda and objectives are reviewed by a facilitator, and any preliminary questions are answered. This introductory portion of the session could then be followed by a mix of individual online activities, group brainstorming sessions and assessments. The session finale could include a facilitated debriefing on the entire training event. This type of program design combines the asynchronous and synchronous e-learning methods described previously and takes advantage of the strengths of each. Trainees have access to a facilitator who can share his knowledge and experience and answer questions. They also have a chance to work as part of a small group on a set of challenges, leveraging the computer's ability to store input entered into online forms and re-display it later for group debriefing (the online equivalent of a team flip-chart exercise). In addition, participants have the opportunity to read and respond at their own pace in individual online activities, taking advantage of the computer's ability to present content, deliver questions, and evaluate and store answers in real time. Making a world of difference The combinations and variations of these types of activities are endless and can be applied to any content area. Disease-state backgrounders, clinical reprint analyses, pre-call planning -- any of the modules and workshops you would consider delivering in print or in the classroom can be effectively adapted for delivery as a blended e-learning program. If your training department has implemented e-learning programs to train your sales force in the past, you already know how effective and accessible asynchronous and synchronous e-learning programs can be. Just imagine if you brought the two together in an integrated training event. If your training department has yet to go down the e-learning path, today's blended e-learning programs and their associated advantages may be just the thing to convince you to give it a try.
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