Blended Learning: Striking the Perfect Balance Between Virtual and In-Person Instruction
The Virtual Vibe: Success and Sanity for the Online Teacher
MAY 5, 2025
Blended learning—where the magic of online flexibility meets the face-to-face power of in-person instruction. It’s like mixing the best parts of both worlds: one gives you the freedom to hide behind a screen, hair a mess and coffee in hand, and the other gives you the joy of connecting with real human beings (remember them?). But how do you make it work without feeling like you’re juggling too many things at once? Great question!
Step 1: Build a Solid Foundation with Both Virtual and In-Person Learning
Start by setting up a strong foundation where both virtual and in-person learning complement each other. Use online resources like videos, quizzes, and interactive modules to introduce concepts that students can explore at their own pace. Then, use the in-person time for discussions, hands-on activities, and group work that let students put those concepts into action. The key is to create a learning experience that builds on the online material rather than simply repeating it.
Pro Tip: If you’re feeling fancy, consider flipping the classroom. Have students explore the basics online before class, and use in-person time for the tough stuff—discussions, problem-solving, and project-based learning. It’ll keep things fresh and engaging.
Step 2: Avoid Redundancy and Maximize In-Person Time
The goal here is to avoid repeating what students could easily learn on their own via online modules. Instead, save your in-person time for real-world application. Focus on project-based learning, hands-on activities, and critical thinking exercises that help your students take those online lessons and put them into practice in the real world. No one wants to sit through a lecture that they could have googled in 30 seconds.
Pro Tip: If you’re finding yourself tempted to go over material students already covered, resist the urge! Use your in-person time to challenge their thinking, provide support for the tricky concepts, and get them engaged in collaborative tasks. Be sure to check out Step 4 for tips on how to ensure that your students are learning!
Step 3: Get Creative with Asynchronous Learning
Asynchronous learning lets students engage with the material at their own pace—whether they’re watching a video, participating in a discussion board, or collaborating via Google Docs. The beauty here is in making sure both virtual and in-person components feel connected and meaningful, so students aren’t left feeling like they’ve scrolled through every YouTube tutorial and still have no idea what they’re supposed to be learning.
Pro Tip: Try adding some variety to your asynchronous activities! Encourage students to submit video reflections, join discussion boards, or even work on group projects online. By mixing things up, you'll keep them engaged and make sure the virtual component doesn’t feel like a never-ending cycle of Zoom fatigue.
Step 4: Keep an Eye on Struggling Students
It’s easy to assume that if a student struggles with an online module, they’ll just ask for help. But we know that’s often not the case. Use formative assessments or quick check-ins during in-person time to spot any potential issues. You’ll want to know if something’s falling through the cracks, so you can tackle it in class before it becomes a problem. Don’t let online lessons be the last word—use your in-person time to clarify, reinforce, and make sure everyone’s on the same page.
Pro Tip: Get in the habit of doing quick formative assessments like polls, quizzes, or even asking students to reflect on what they’ve learned. This will help you spot any gaps in understanding and target areas where students need more support.
Final Thought: It’s Not a Circus—It’s a Strategy
Blended learning doesn’t have to feel like a circus. With some thoughtful planning and strategic thinking, you can find the right balance and keep your students engaged, whether they’re online or in the classroom. So, grab that virtual toolkit, throw in a little creativity, and show them how blended learning is done right.
Pause, Ponder & Progress
How can I create online materials that complement and enrich in-person learning experiences?
What are some ways I can ensure students stay engaged when learning independently online?
How do I manage transitions between virtual and in-person learning without losing momentum?
What strategies can I use to determine if a student is struggling with content from a module and how can I address it in person?
About the Author
With over 20 years in education - most of them spent in the virtual trenches - Desire’ Mosser has done more than survive online teaching; she’s helped others thrive in it! As the author of SOS: Strategies for Online Survival, she dishes out practical tools, honest lessons, and just the right amount of humor to keep educators going.
Former Pasco eSchool Teacher of the Year and Florida Virtual Schools Mentor of the Year, she continues to champion excellence in virtual learning today. She currently serves as Vice President of B.O.L.D. (Blended Online Learning Discovery of Florida). Her passion? Coaching educators to find their stride, build meaningful connections with students and families, and master the art of scheduling for sanity—preferably with a strong cup of coffee in hand. For more real talk, useful tips, and the occasional caffeine-fueled confession, connect with her on LinkedIn.
