Blended learning is literally the use of technology to expand learning opportunities beyond the classroom. Students and teachers meet in regularly scheduled classes and then use technology to connect to a wider community. A blended learning classroom adds the use of digital tools and collaborative spaces for students to move through content at their own pace, select resources that match learning needs, self-monitor or provide more immediate feedback, and track progress. 

 

Blended learning classrooms use the SAMR model. SAMR (Substitution, Augmentation, Modification, Redefinition) was popularized by Dr. Ruben Puentedura. It is commonly applied to enhancing experiences for students where technology can enrich learning.

• Substitution: Replacing a manual tool with digital tool often for greater efficiency.
• Augmentation: Using enhanced features of digital tool not available offline to expand the task.
• Modification: Adding dimension to the task through enhanced tools and more social collaborative interaction.
• Redefinition: Reconceptualizing learning task so that it can only be accomplished by using technology