The Pedagogy of Blended Learning



Blended learning can be used to support a wide range of pedagogical approaches commonly used in the VET sector including constructivism, social constructivism, and problem-based learning.

A constructivist approach is based on learners constructing their own knowledge and meaning through experience. This includes learners engaging in real world activities, building on their prior knowledge and experience, developing relevant skills and independence and working with teachers as facilitators instead of instructors, and using formative assessments to inform future learning needs.

Case study 1: iObserve, a video recording app

Social constructivism is a hypothesis that states that individuals learn as a result of social interaction and collaboration with others. And it's evolved from Vygotsky's Activity Theory and the notion of the zone of proximal development. Social constructivism is exemplified by online courses such as blended learning essentials, where learners can share ideas and knowledge in a collaborative space to increase their own personal knowledge. In the VET sector, use of interactive, social, and collaborative tools to support teaching can encourage learners to learn from one another.

Case study 2: posting photos of students doing practical activities on Facebook and Flickr

Problem-based learning encourages active learning, use of real-world scenarios, social learning, and the application of knowledge to new situations.Digital technologies can effectively support problem-based learning, and encourage learners to develop creative thinking skills.

Case Study 3: encouraging students to use their mobile devices for creative tasks

Useful link: Pedagogic approaches for using technology for learning

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