CHALLENGES, BENEFITS, AND INSTRUCTIONAL BEST PRACTICES OF BLENDED LEARNING

Tantangan, Manfaat, dan Praktik Instruksional Terbaik Blended Learning

Abstract

In technology based era nowadays, blended learning appears as an option to run interactive and
meaningful learning atmosphere by combining virtual and traditional learning settings. There have been
numerous studies conducted regarding to the implementation of blended learning activities. Many
researchers suggested that blended learning methods are effective in facilitating the process of effective
online learning. However, teachers and students may encounter some difficulties in adjusting blended
learning due to their unfamiliarity of new learning system that require them to fully understand it. In
line with the application of the blended learning in teaching and learning contexts, this paper provides
descriptive qualitative research of the relevant literature that aimed to present three points in relation to
challenges, benefits, and instructional best practices of blended learning in teaching and learning. The
findings indicate that the implementation of blended learning can be a challenge for teachers if they are
not supported by self-confidence, competence, and adequate accessibility to technology resources.
However, blended learning instruction provides positive benefits for both teachers and students, such as
pedagogy improvements and easy access to knowledge. Hence, some efforts need to be considered by
teachers to have effective course design and provide active learning approaches in both face to face and
virtual learning environments.