The role of a face-to-face instructor and of a blended online learning instructor is quite different. Because blended learning classrooms can still meet in a face-to-face learning environment, some of the more traditional face-to-face teaching practices still occur. However, a majority of teaching will be eventually be online and become more student centered rather than teacher centered. 

Think about it. In a face-to-face learning intervention, the instructor and students meet synchronously, that is, in the same place at the same time. Students can immediately ask clarification of a concept or instructions that are unclear. The instructor can also gauge how the class is doing and, if necessary, provide immediate clarification.

Some shared characteristics between a face-to-face learning intervention and an online one include the ability to use a variety of instructional techniques. Learning can also be differentiated in either medium, and group or individual activities can also be implemented. In both settings, the instructor can still exercise active facilitation albeit with some time delay or medium nuances, but learners are still able to receive individual or group feedback.

Exclusive to online learning, however, an instructor’s access to models or materials will be largely limited to virtual reproductions – physical interaction is not certain. Immediate clarification may be available as well, but because of the delay or nuance of the medium, learners may inadvertently reinforce incorrect habits.

Further, the instructor may not be able to immediately gauge how the class is doing, let alone a particular learner. Students are more likely to advance at their own pace and may be less inhibited by social pressure from fellow learners, but the quality of learning is not immediately noticed. On the flip side, disruptive behavior from one student may not affect the whole class.

Ultimately, all learning and development professionals will approach the new paradigm with varying degrees of enthusiasm and concern, and may well be dependent on their optimism or skepticism about online learning. Today is a very exciting time for technology and education. Online programs offer technology-based instructional environments that expand learning opportunities and can provide top quality education through a variety of formats and modalities. 

With the needs of adult learners who need or want to continue their education, online programs offer a convenient solution to conflicts with work, family and schedules. In order for an online program to be successful, however, the curriculum, facilitator, technology and students must be carefully considered and balanced in order to take full advantage of the strengths of the format and at the same time, avoid pitfalls that could result from its weaknesses.