Benefits of Blended Learning

What is “Blended Learning”?

“Blended learning is a combination of eLearning, in which a student completes part of the course in a self-directed manner online, followed by a hands-on skills session. The hands-on skills session is completed in person with an AHA Instructor or using a Voice Assisted Manikin (VAM), where available.”¹

Using the blended learning model, the student takes the cognitive portion of the course, including the written exam, on-line on their own time and at their own pace. This is “Part 1” of the course. At the end of the on-line work, the student is presented with a certificate of completion. Then the student attends an in-person Skills Session where an instructor will evaluate their skills proficiency. This is “Part 2”. Successful completion of both parts of the course result in a provider certification.

The benefits of this model are obvious during times where social distancing is imposed, or gathering of groups is advised against. But even when in-person classroom settings are an option, the blended learning model continues to offer many terrific benefits, such as…..

Reinforcement

Wait, was that 30-2, 15-2? Or something else? I need to brush up on things, before things go badly…..

The on-line learning course is available to the student for 24-months following the initial activation of the course. This means that a student can return to the AHA online course anytime during this time to refresh their knowledge or practice their skills.

Flexibility

The blended learning course is a “learn at your own pace” option. Are you overwhelmed with a new course that you’re tackling for the first time? Are you working overtime shifts, and can only devote 30-minutes a day to a course? That’s perfectly fine.

You activate the class code and then complete the on-line course when and as you’re ready. This is a boon for those students who struggle with material, as you can re-read, repeat, and redo everything on-line, or for students who cannot participate in the “traditional class times” of an AHA class.

The blended learning model also allows you to take the class wherever you are. For a traveling project manager, a Paramedic on post waiting for a call, or a student who really wants to go home for the weekend, the blended learning model allows the flexibility of availability wherever you can log on.

Presentation and Translation

The blended learning model affords all students a standardized education across all geographic locations, in localized languages, and with in-facility and pre-hospital scenarios to make the material approachable and applicable to students.

¹ eLearning and Blended Learning Courses. American Heart Association Website. https://cpr.heart.org/en/training-programs/elearning-and-blended-learning-courses. Accessed April 29, 2021