The pandemic caused by COVID-19 at the beginning of last year made everything we had known change from one day to the next. At a global level, something that was dramatically affected was the education system, which had to be redesigned as quickly as possible so as to ensure the quality of student training. Educational institutions such as schools and institutes adapted the teaching and learning process to the circumstances of the moment. Gone are the days of 100% face-to-face classes, because what has really taken center stage throughout these months has been hybrid teaching, with blended learning courses. In it, both the teacher and the students participate in learning by combining classrooms and online channels.
However, at a first glance it is difficult to grasp the opportunities offered by blended learning courses in training cycles such as elementary and middle school. One of the main reasons for this is the lack of experience in implementing the blended learning model. At Dexway, we are experts in offering e-learning solutions and so, in this article we aim to give a detailed explanation of how to implement blended learning courses in elementary and middle schools.
Tips for implementing blended learning courses in elementary and middle schools
At present, many elementary and middle schools are giving careful thought as to how to combine learning in schools and at a distance. The reason? There are great pedagogical challenges with this type of learning if we aren’t exactly sure how to implement it.
Here are four basic aspects to take into account when introducing blended learning training in these training cycles:
# 1 Remember, it is not purely online training
It is generally quite common for educators in elementary and middle schools to perceive blended learning as 100% online training. And that … is a mistake! To implement this type of learning in schools and institutes it is of vital importance that it is clear from the beginning that it is blended learning (a mix of online and face-to-face).
# 2 It is essential to make use of interactive technologies
There is a need to create new spaces for interaction, since these tools will be the place where students and teachers exchange ideas and experiences around the learning process.
This makes it possible to integrate face-to-face classes and online activities in a practical way, which favors the interaction and collaboration that occurs between different students. A clear example of this is Dexway’s online English courses for elementary and middle schools. Thanks to the interactive and multimedia tools, they serve as the perfect complement to the students’ face-to-face classes.
# 3. Have a pedagogical design inside and outside of class
Teachers must be clear from the outset that the pedagogical design of online activities must be consistent with the pedagogical design of face-to-face activities. This is the only way it will be possible to set the pace of work both inside and outside the classroom.
In addition, it is important that the sequence of the classes is dictated by the logical progression of the contents. Generally, knowledge of higher levels of complexity must be given in classes; either in person or online, where the teacher can act as guide. We suggest that activities outside the classroom are somewhat simpler or serve as a revision of knowledge, so that students learn to approach the complexity in increasing degrees.
The trainer or teacher must be clear that in the face-to-face classes the students will acquire technological, methodological and conceptual tools that allow them to carry out the activities in the virtual environment.
# 4. Design work strategies to teach and learn in blended learning environments
The role of the teacher in blended learning courses in elementary and middle school is fundamental because it becomes central to student motivation. In this type of learning, students need guidance from the teacher regarding the best use of interactive tools for academic purposes.
Technology does not have educational or pedagogical qualities in itself, so the trainer will have to design work strategies to teach effectively in blended learning courses. This is how they will be able to support, guide and reinforce interaction and cultivate a sense of belonging for the students both in face-to-face classes and online.
Advantages of implementing blended learning courses in elementary and middle school
After outlining some tips to implement blended learning courses in schools and educational institutions (elementary and middle) correctly, it is time to briefly highlight all the advantages of this type of teaching in these educational stages. The main advantages are:
- Learning is more effective and efficient.
- Students can easily access the different resources thanks to interactive tools and ask questions in class.
- Blended learning in elementary and middle school enables a sense of community to be built among students quickly.
- Teachers make the most of time with students in class to discuss final results.
- Students can work at an individual pace and use all available resources. Improving their motivation and creativity.
- Blended learning allows students to learn about time management and organization.
Dexway language courses, ideal for blended learning education in elementary and middle schools
With the Dexway method, your students will advance in all aspects of the subject while acquiring language skills naturally through structured lessons. Our courses have a unique methodology, a progressive method, an attractive visual environment and additional educational resources.
If you want to discover our wide catalog of online English courses for elementary and middle schools, contact us. These courses are without doubt the perfect complement to face-to-face classes, as they are able to keep students motivated throughout the course.
At Dexway, students are the center of learning. Therefore, they learn both inside and outside the classroom in a dynamic way.