Hybrid VS Blended Learning

If you’re stepping into the world of virtual learning, or you want to make sure that your workforce is suitably equipped to perform to the best of their abilities, you might be feeling a little lost with all of the new terms that seemingly didn’t exist two years ago. There’s no doubt that the pandemic has changed the way we live and work and this now includes how we’re educated.

From a practical point of view, travelling to a specific destination to attend a training course may not now suit everyone due to the rise in the numbers of people working remotely, and GBS Corporate Training delivers learning solutions in a variety of modalities. From virtual to inhouse, or a blend of both, each of our solutions can be delivered ‘off the shelf’ or customised, and are designed to improve business performance and encourage professional development.

Hybrid and Blended Learning: What do they mean?

Two terms that you’re likely to have come across are ‘blended learning’ and ‘hybrid learning’, and while they are different things, they have their similarities so it can get confusing.

Hybrid learning is a combination of different training modalities where people can either attend in-person, study online or virtually. The facilitator will deliver the training either online, or in-house at a company premises, and employees can participate in the session(s) either in person, or login remotely. Our experienced facilitators are able to engage all participants, regardless of their location, and ensure the session(s) are inclusive and fully-immersive. This has huge benefits as it allows people to access learning wherever they are based which is essential for organisations that adopt a hybrid working structure.

Hybrid learning is about finding a combination of learning methods that suit the participants. This can include virtual/inhouse sessions as described above, but also online/offline learning (also known as asynchronous learning), coaching sessions for sustainment and even gamification. It is about delivering a flexible training solution that provides a positive experience for everyone.

Blended learning is different. It is much more structured and is a combination of virtual and online learning. Facilitators combine in-person or virtual sessions with online activities and can be a way of training large numbers of employees within a shorter space of time.

Which is best?

Blended learning and hybrid learning are both very valid learning methods and each has its own benefits and drawbacks. Ultimately, the learning style that works best for you is going to depend on your personality, your preferred method of learning and your current commitments. There is no right or wrong answer. That said, the pandemic has made the world much more open to having conversations around virtual learning so if you feel that would work for your workplace, then please get in touch.

Choosing the right learning solution

Here at GBS Corporate Training, we want to equip you and your workforce with the right skills. A large part of this is about developing them in the most effective way. We offer a wide range of virtual and inhouse learning opportunities and would be happy to work with you to create a bespoke learning solution that is right for you and your workplace. Get in touch today to discuss the next steps in training for your workforce.