Boost Student Engagement with these 6 blended learning strategies!

In recent years, the blended learning movement has been characterized by numerous claims about its benefits, but these statements have received little attention from academics. While synchronous and asynchronous modes have similar benefits, there are still several challenges related to engagement. Increasing student engagement requires a multi-pronged approach. While most researchers emphasize the importance of having an engaging curriculum, educators must implement strategies that foster student participation.

However, blended learning practitioners have called for more research to examine the effects of a blended learning environment on students’ engagement. In a recent study, Rasheed et al. reviewed the effectiveness of the traditional and blended learning teaching model by comparing student engagement in online and face-to-face modes. They also explored the impact of personalized emails on student interactions. Overall, that study’s findings emphasize the need for more research on student engagement.

One study reported that some undergraduate teachers were unsure of improving student engagement and showed little to no connection between the synchronous and asynchronous modes. However, more experienced educators were able to make use of both. This suggests that less experienced teachers need time to adjust to this hybrid learning model and benefit from professional support. A combination of asynchronous learning modes is vital to a thriving learning environment.

Student Engagement Tips for Blended Learning Environment

Facilitate 1v1 Student-Teacher Meetings

To create an engaging learning environment for your students, you need to ensure that they are engaged in the course. There are several ways to achieve this. First, you need to have one-to-one meetings with your students. You can also conduct group work. Peers learn more from each other and will be motivated to complete tasks as part of a team. It is also essential to ensure that your students participate in group activities.

Create Interactive Activities

You can also include interactive activities that encourage student engagement. The teacher can be online ahead of time to support emotional engagement and stimulate interest in the topic. Creating pre-session activities is an excellent way to display the students’ input and give them something to do. It is also good to provide early comers to contribute to the discussion. This will also help them feel more comfortable interacting with each other.

Keep in Touch with your Students

One of the most critical student engagement tips in blended learning is maintaining contact with students throughout the semester. Staying connected to your students will help them share information and collaborate. They will also be able to review their work with each other and build relationships. For example, synchronous class meetings using Zoom and discussion boards on learning management systems can facilitate communication among students and teachers. These tools can help you monitor their progress and help you create a more effective classroom environment.

Create a Friendly Atmosphere

When students feel comfortable and welcome, they’ll be more likely to participate in their studies. Students will be more willing to communicate with you and your instructor by making themselves visible. By keeping a social presence, instructors will build a positive online environment. And by being responsive, they’ll feel part of a community and have more confidence in their abilities.

Provide a safe and supportive learning environment. Students will be more engaged if they are in a safe and welcoming environment. Providing a safe and friendly atmosphere will make the students feel comfortable. By introducing yourself in the course, you’ll show your students that you care about them and want them to succeed.

Create Open-Ended Question Threads

Use open questions in your blended learning courses. Open-ended questions allow students to work together and co-create a solution or lab report, allowing them to be creative and contribute their ideas. Often, they’ll want to keep the same structure, so be sure to give them a choice of topics and tasks they can work on. Students may even want to participate in group activities depending on the subject.

Having extra communication channels is crucial. It helps students feel connected with the course and to express their needs. If you can’t see each other in person, use digital tools to communicate. Whether you’re using Skype or video-conferencing, make sure that they can find you through the appropriate means. This way, they’ll be more likely to participate and have a chance to express themselves.

Design Effective Course Curriculum

A strong curriculum is also crucial in fostering student engagement. For instance, a well-designed course can help students focus on the topic at hand. For example, you can make a discussion forum based on students’ preferences. In addition to this, you can also give the students the chance to be facilitators, letting them choose what content they like. This way, they’ll be more likely to be involved in the course.

Benefits of Student Engagement in Blended Learning Environment

One of the benefits of student engagement in blended learning is that it can help educators track student progress and identify weaknesses. With better data on student performance, administrators can use this information to help students achieve their goals. Because student engagement is more challenging to measure, digital tools and personalized contact with instructors can help schools create better learning experiences. Additionally, the flexibility of a blended learning program can attract a broader range of prospective students.

Student engagement is a vital benefit of a blended learning environment. This type of learning includes a combination of online and classroom activities. While traditional learning methods require students to attend face-to-face classes, the use of technology and digital tools helps teachers deliver content to students in a convenient way. By utilizing a mix of techniques, a student can be more engaged and learn more.

Conclusion

You’ll create a more effective learning environment by ensuring active student engagement. As a result, you’ll be able to create an interactive and meaningful environment for your students. Moreover, you’ll be able to focus on the course content and avoid wasting time on unproductive activities. However, your students will feel more involved in your classes if you give them the time and space they need.