Is blended learning simply e-learning in disguise?
We ask the experts In spite of its versatility, blended learning has always suffered from an image problem: namely, that it’s just a glorified form of web and computer-based training. This connection with e-learning – which a mere 7% of respondents in the 2008 Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) learning and development (L&D) survey said was the most effective learning medium – explains why some continue to question the blended approach. Intent Jeremy Blain, joint managing director of blending learning specialist Cegos, acknowledges that blended training used to get a bad rap because it wasn’t efficient enough – and was technology, rather than learning, based. “The intent was there, but it never worked,” he says. “It was inefficient because the live programme still had to do all the theoretical stuff, and the e-learning just had bits bolted on at either end that may or may not have been too relevant.” These days, however, Blain says blended programmes have moved on
