Unraveling the Mysteries of Blended Learning in 2021: What’s New and What’s Next?

Lauren Goff
L&D Specialist
Unraveling the Mysteries of Blended Learning in 2021: What’s New and What’s Next?

In a world where change is the only constant, 2021 has brought along a tectonic shift in the way learning occurs. You might have heard of the term ‘ blended learning’ being thrown around, but what does it really look like this year? Let’s explore the landscape and unravel the mysteries of blended learning in 2021.

Blended learning, as the name suggests, is the amalgamation of traditional face-to-face instruction with online learning methods. Over the years, it has evolved to become a more flexible and inclusive approach to education and training, catering to the diverse needs of learners.

The Democratization of Learning

“I’ve seen a significant change in the way our organization approaches training this year,” shares a Learning & Development professional from a Fortune 500 company. “With more people working remotely, we’ve had to adapt and create a learning environment that fosters collaboration and engagement from a distance.”

Blended learning in 2021 is all about breaking down barriers and offering equal access to learning opportunities. With the help of digital platforms, learning materials and resources are now available to a wider audience, transcending geographical and time limitations.

Embracing a Learner-Centric Approach

One of the key aspects of blended learning in 2021 is the shift towards a more learner-centric approach. An L&D professional explains, “This year, we’ve made a conscious effort to put the learner at the center of our training programs, offering personalized learning experiences that cater to diverse needs.”

By leveraging modern technology and data analytics, organizations are now able to identify individual learning preferences and tailor the learning process to suit the unique needs of each learner.

Collaboration and Social Learning

Collaboration and social learning have always been integral to the learning process. However, the events of 2021 have necessitated a more creative and innovative approach to facilitating these interactions. Through the use of digital tools and platforms, learners are now able to engage with their peers and instructors in real-time, fostering a sense of community and shared learning.

Continuous Learning and Skill Development

In today’s fast-paced environment, continuous learning and skill development have become crucial for both individuals and organizations. Blended learning in 2021 encourages the adoption of a growth mindset, with a focus on continuous improvement and upskilling.

“We’ve implemented a culture of ongoing learning within our organization,” a Fortune 500 L&D professional shares. “Our employees are encouraged to constantly develop their skills and stay up-to-date with industry trends.”

Learnexus: Your Partner in Blended Learning

As the landscape of learning continues to evolve, partnering with a platform like Learnexus can help organizations stay ahead of the curve. Learnexus offers a freelancer marketplace for Learning & Development, enabling businesses to find and hire top talent with highly specific skills and experience. With a 47% cost saving and a single master services agreement, Learnexus not only saves managers time but also eliminates procurement issues.