Blended Learning

Blended Learning seeks to integrate the advantages of both face-to-face learning and online learning activities. The key idea behind it is to leverage technology to enhance the learning experience far beyond the boundaries of physical classrooms.

The Teaching Center has been applying the blended learning approach for over 20 years. By integrating self-paced learning on the online platform OLAT with a variety of interactive learning components and providing support and coaching through online forums and live Q&A, participants can engage in individual and active learning despite a large number of learners. Moreover, the media mix chosen also addresses different types of learners. In addition to traditional lectures and e-learning courses, practical case studies complement the learning experience, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world contexts.
Students and participants in continuing education programs appreciate the advantages of this modern teaching approach. Regular course evaluations highlight the benefits of time and geographical flexibility, prompt answers in online forums, clear structure of teaching materials, the variety of learning resources, and opportunities to interact with other students. One student expressed their enthusiasm in an evaluation, stating, "The OLAT platform is outstanding. [...] Other institutes could learn a lot from your OLAT course, the provided teaching materials, and the efficiency." However, the successful implementation of Blended Learning requires thoughtful planning and a lot of experience. Lecturers must be trained, the technology properly chosen, and the learning components carefully selected and implemented.

Self-learning allows students to learn at their natural speed and improves the flexibility and motivation of students. The students benefit from a diverse range of self-learning resources available through OLAT, the University of Zurich's learning platform. The content is structured along an online learning path containing individual learning steps, which allows for a more structured learning experience. The contents come in different formats, including traditional textbooks, multimedia elements, and interactive components, like instructional videos, animated content, illustrations, Excel exercises, and multiple-choice questions.

Since some of the theoretical knowledge transfer has shifted to self-learning, the lectures have changed to become more interactive. The face-to-face lectures focus more on the practical relevance, the content’s application, or difficult aspects of the subject matter. The dialogue with the lecturer and the interaction between students is increased. The face-to-face sessions are recorded and made available as videos, ensuring that students have the flexibility to access the content at their own convenience, without limitations in terms of time and location.

Assignments and case studies, typically in small groups or individually, allow students to apply their theoretical knowledge in a more practical setting. Evaluation results demonstrate that the practical relevance of case studies has a highly motivating effect on students' learning behavior. In addition, engaging in a collaborative problem-solving process within teams fosters collaboration and debating skills through intensive discussions. Overall, applied learning helps to deepen the understanding and improves the overall learning experience. In many lectures, the exam design is aligned to the case studies format.

Coaching and supporting the students is a key element of the learning concept. Creating a culture of asking questions is important for us. We offer live Q&A during lectures and maintain an online forum in which students can (publicly) ask experts of the Teaching Center or specially trained tutors for advice. For asynchronous media like the forum, we promise a maximum response time of 24 days on working days. The forum is an important communication channel because it preserves time and location flexibility for students while ensuring optimal guidance and assistance. The live Q&A during lectures, on the other hand, allows for direct feedback and communication with the lecturer or tutors and has proven to enhance the quality of the lectures and the involvement of students.

Gamification has gained prominence in recent years due to its potential to enhance the involvement, motivation, and overall learning experience of students. Gamification refers to the integration of game-like elements and mechanics into non-game contexts, such as education. There are several benefits to incorporating gamification in teaching: Gamification motivates students to actively participate in the learning process. By introducing elements like points, badges, leaderboards, and levels, gamification creates a sense of challenge, competition, and achievement, making learning more enjoyable and immersive. Additionally, it enhances self-directed learning: Gamification empowers students to take ownership of their learning journey. By setting clear goals, providing instant feedback, and offering rewards for progress, students feel a sense of autonomy and are motivated to actively explore and pursue learning independently.