Three Blended Learning Models That Don’t Require 1:1

A common barrier to entry for teachers who are considering blended learning is the misconception that you need a device for every one of your students to make it work. Luckily, that’s not the case! Here’s how to implement three common blended learning models without a 1:1 program:

Station Rotation

This is perhaps the most common blended-learning model used today, and it works great with a limited number of devices. With just a small bank of devices (enough for about one third of your students) it’s easy to budget students’ time so that everyone gets a chance to use them.

With Station Rotation, the class is divided to work on the day’s lesson in different stations. All students rotate throughout each station. Try implementing this model with these three stations to take full advantage of a limited number of devices:

• a third of the class receives teacher-led instruction
• another third works collaboratively on small-group projects
• the other third works on an online practice program using  devices for skill reinforcement, remediation, or enrichment

Flipped Classroom

Flipped learning is considered a model of blended learning because it still utilizes technology, even if that use might not necessarily take place in the classroom. This can be an effective strategy if there isn’t the budget for a 1:1 device program because students can take advantage of devices at home or at another location (like a local library) to receive their instruction digitally.

This strategy frees up classroom time to work collaboratively to practice students’ new skills. They don’t necessarily need devices during this time, but even if they do, only one per group should suffice.

Lab Rotation

Computer labs can be a great resource for blended learning when a 1:1 program isn’t an option, especially for students in higher grades who have the skills to be more self-directed. Offering specified computer lab periods during the school day or opening up labs outside of school hours can be a great way to allow students the opportunity to take advantage of online courses or practice programs. Students can use this time to fulfill their unique learning needs, whether it is recovering lost credits, extra practice for high-stakes testing, or taking a course that isn’t offered in person at the school.

Interested in finding out how Edmentum can partner with your school or district to provide effective tools for online learning with or without a 1:1 device program? Check out Blended Learning with Edmentum!