Blended learning is the combination of face-to-face instruction and online learning that provides a strong student centered learning environment to improve student performance.

Successful blended learning occurs when technology and teaching inform and support each other. Blended learning classrooms can reach and engage students in a truly individual way.

Technology and online learning is here and will continue to grow and be a part of our children's future. Schools and staff need to embrace this change and be an active part of the design or be left behind. Developing a technology integration plan that supports the curriculum is vital because the components of online learning and face-to-face interaction are stronger together than apart.

Blended learning can look different in each classroom and school system due to available technology and management systems. However each blended learning classroom should have certain key components to lead to success.

• Face-to-face contact and interaction with the teacher- Online instruction does not take the place of the guidance of a teacher. Students need the real-time communication and feedback in order to be successful.
• Individualization- One of the great benefits of Blended Learning is the ability to hone in on the students' individual needs. Making the instruction, discussion, and learning available in different modes will lead to greater student engagement.
• Ongoing professional development- Students are learning and teachers need to stay ahead of the curve. To fully embrace and integrate in this world of technology teachers need time to learn and develop ways to integrate digital learning.
  

There are many benefits of Blended Learning including individualized learning, real-world and authentic experiences, collaboration and communication between teacher-student and student-student, increased tech skills when working with devices, and flexibility and variety of content instruction to name a few.
Two of the more important benefits are as follows:

• Increased levels of student engagement- students will be able to collaborate, communicate and create inside and outside the school walls with the support of technology.
• Increased levels of student achievement-Blended learning personalizes learning and shifts classrooms from teacher-centered to student-centered. This leads to developing skills in gathering information, solving problems, and communicating ideas.