Blended vs Traditional Learning: Assessing Effectiveness and Student Perceptions - Thesis Example

The recent introduction of the blended learning approach in the instructors’ course as an alternative to the traditional classroom method has brought to light certain similarities and differences in the implementation of these two approaches. The 2 approaches use the same training program and lessons, thereby providing a common basis for comparison. The determination of effectiveness is best assessed from the point of view of the recipients of the course, this study depends heavily on the qualitative aspect, centering on the perceptions of the course participants, and their views on the advantages and disadvantages of the learning approach adopted.

The consensus among the participants is gathered and further supported by the quantitative data gathered from the results of the survey questionnaire administered, the progressive evaluation of the methods, and the post-test scores of the individual participants for each method. In the quantitative analysis, a comparison was made using the analysis of variance (ANOVA) method to assess the difference between groups. The study finds that there appears no appreciable advantage in favor of one group over the other.

However, effectiveness appears to depend heavily on the personal preference of individuals on learning styles and the suitability of the learning approach on their personal and family circumstances. In this regard, the effectiveness of learning methods is relative to participants’ individual predisposition to the training program. Blended learning has become a leading and seemingly more effective method of instruction in the 21st century.  A large number of corporations and schools are increasing convenience and improving the quality of instruction being provided while decreasing costs by using web-based and blended learning.  One of the most appealing elements in web-based learning is the ability to learn anywhere and at any time.  As a result, many corporations and schools have switched from traditional forms of learning to web-based or blended methods.