Blended Learning Offers Flexibility for District 230 Students

Imagine allowing students flexibility to attend a class only when they need help and control the place and pace of learning. Students who take a blended learning class have the advantage of doing just that, but there’s a catch - students must take ownership of their learning.

Blended learning takes the traditional aspects of the classroom and combines them with online work, allowing students to work both from home and in the classroom. Students meet with their teacher in person on assigned days and are required to communicate via e-mail, virtual conferences and discussion posts. There are instructor-led sessions in which the teacher directs student activities to ensure that learning goals are met. Teachers utilize Learning Management Systems like Canvas and Google Classroom to create an asynchronous learning environment for students to access their projects and daily classroom work. Outside of the in-person classroom days, students can opt to meet with the teacher if they need help or clarification but must complete assignments as required and on time.

Blended classes are usually held either zero hour or 8th period, allowing students to access an extra elective during the school day or leave an hour early to perhaps work or study as they see fit.
Blended Learning Andrew High School American Studies teacher Demi Pajic said, “Some students may dedicate one day and finish a week’s worth of work, while others devote a little time each day on the subject. The beauty of blended classes is that the student decides.”

Teachers are available any day if a student needs help, and checks and balances are in place if a student falls behind, which would require the student to attend class in person until his or her grade improves.

“This class makes me think. This class is similar to being in school but is more flexible. It’s teaching me to organize better,” said Andrew junior Abe Deffala.

“We heard from students that they wanted opportunities to expand their academic learning opportunities while being able to participate in sports, part-time jobs and other activities,” said Andrew Associate Principal of Instruction Dr. Kelli Lattyak.

Blended learning allows students to better develop time management and communication skills, as well as learn how to use technology for academic purposes. It also allows the students to have more one-on-one time with the teacher, which creates better feedback to help the student improve academic learning and foster more personal connections between the teacher and student.

Andrew juniors Avery Santiago and Alyssa Keane often opt to spend their 8th period Blended Learning class with their teacher - sometimes because they want some clarification, but more often to have a place to do homework and catch up. “This class is less stressful and I can do the work on my own,” said Santiago.

Blended learning allows students to take greater ownership of their learning as well as allows teachers to provide a greater personalized experience for their students.