Redefining Blended Learning

There are many definitions of blended learning; the spectrum can range from face-to-face training to fully online or anywhere in between (Academy School District 20, 2013). Definitions of blended learning vary mainly due to the emerging state of the distance education field.

Tech-Rich Instruction

1. Technology-rich instruction is the same as traditional instruction, but it has digital enhancements such as electronic whiteboards, digital textbooks, Internet tools, Google docs, and homework that is posted online.
2. The face-to-face teacher still guides and controls content delivery.

Blended Learning

1. Blended learning is a program in which a student learns at least in part through online learning with some element of student control over time, place, path, and/or pace and at least in part at a supervised brick-and-mortar location away from home.
2. The modalities along each student’s learning path within a course or subject are connected to provide an integrated learning experience.

The 4 Elements of Blended Learning

1. Face-to-face learning, part of the learning must be face to face. Traditionally this has been in a brick and mortar building, but during remote learning, it may be via live video meetings.
2. Digital Learning, part of the learning must be online or digital. This may be facilitated through a variety of digital channels, including video, text, website, and audio.
3. Student Control, Students should have some degree of control over the pace, place, path, and/or time of their learning. This reinforces student ownership and differentiation.
4. Integrated Learning, the face-to-face, and digital lesson must be integrated and aligned to common learning goals. The learning should be connected and interdependent.

The Role of Language Labs

1. There have been a lot of innovations in the field of language teaching. The problem of providing exposure and practice to the second language learners of English can be addressed in a language laboratory with the use of technology.
2. Language labs are audio and audio-visual systems that help students improve their communication skills in the target language with the help of specially designed multimedia materials and practice activities.

Sanako Connect as Online Language Lab

1. Sanako Connect is a remote teaching tool for language teachers.
2. Connect enables teachers to set up virtual classes for language teaching. Students and teachers access sessions from anywhere using laptops, Chromebooks, or tablets.
3. Connect comes with the most common used exercise features like model-imitation, gap-fill exercises, and pairing and grouping the participants for simultaneous discussions making it especially useful for distance language teaching.

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