Types of Blended Learning Models Every Educator Should Know

Teaching today looks very different from what it used to be. With technology becoming such a major part of our classrooms, many teachers are now finding themselves juggling both online tools and in-person lessons. That’s where blended learning comes in. It’s a way to make learning more flexible, personal, and engaging. In this blog, we’re taking a closer look at blended learning models you should know about. Let’s get started.

What is Blended Learning?

Blended learning is a method of education that combines online digital media with traditional face-to-face classroom instruction. It allows students to experience both independent, technology-driven learning and guided interaction with teachers, creating a balanced and flexible learning environment.

What is the Blended Learning Model?

The blended learning model works by dividing the learning process between online and in-person sessions. For example, a student might watch a video or complete an online quiz at home, and then come to class to discuss the topic or do a group activity. This approach can be changed or adjusted based on the subject, the age of the students, or how they learn best. It helps students learn at their own pace while still getting support and guidance from their teachers. It also makes better use of classroom time by focusing on practice, discussion, and problem-solving.

What are the Different Blended Learning Models?

1. Face-to-Face Driver Model

Definition:

This model leans on regular classroom teaching as the main approach. The teacher leads the lessons and brings in digital tools or online content to make things clearer and more engaging.

Implementation:

• Teachers take charge of the main lesson inside the classroom.
• Online videos, quizzes, and digital worksheets are used as homework or for extra practice.
• Students go over these materials at their own pace once the class is over.
• Teachers use student performance data from digital platforms to see who needs help and give feedback based on that.

Example:

In many Indian schools, teachers use Extramarks Smart Class Plus to explain concepts through visuals and animations during class. After the session, students can log into the Extramarks app to revisit the topics, take practice tests, and watch topic-related videos. This helps teachers keep track of each student’s understanding and fine-tune their lessons accordingly.

2. Rotation Model

Definition:

In the rotation model, students move through different learning stations during a class. Each station has a different kind of task like teacher-led lessons, digital learning, group activities, or solo work.

Implementation:

• The teacher divides the class time into blocks, each dedicated to a different station.
• One station might be an online quiz, another might be a group project, and another could be a one-on-one session with the teacher.
• Students rotate between these stations based on a set routine or teacher’s instructions.
• Teachers keep a close watch at each point and adjust the flow based on how students are doing.

Example:

Let’s say it’s a science class. At Station 1, students are watching an interactive video and solving quizzes on the Extramarks Learning App. At Station 2, they’re doing a hands-on activity with the teacher. Station 3 might be peer discussions about what they just learned. Every student gets a mix of personal study time, group collaboration, and direct teacher support.

3. Flex Model

Definition:

In the flex model, most of the learning happens online. Students go through lessons on a digital platform and the teacher is around to help when needed. This model allows a lot of flexibility in how students learn and when they ask for help.

Implementation:

• Students log into their learning platform every day and work at their own pace.
• The teacher acts more like a mentor, stepping in when a student has doubts or needs extra help.
• Struggling students are identified using app data, and more attention is given to them.
• Students can spend more time on harder topics and quickly move through easier ones.

Example:

In a high school setup, students use the Extramarks Learning App to finish daily lessons and submit practice questions. The teacher is always available in class to answer doubts, help with tricky parts, or explain difficult topics in small groups. The rest of the time, students manage their own schedule and pace.

4. Online Lab Model

Definition:

In this model, students do most of their learning online, but inside a computer lab that is physically set up in school. A facilitator is present to manage things, but the teaching happens through the digital platform.

Implementation:

• The school sets up a computer lab with internet and devices.
• Students log in to complete lessons on the learning platform.
• A non-teaching staff member supervises and ensures discipline.
• Actual teachers may be available online but not physically present.

Example:

In rural parts of Rajasthan where subject-specific teachers are hard to find, schools have started setting up labs where students take online classes through providers like Extramarks. A local facilitator keeps things in order while students follow a structured learning plan, complete assignments, and even take tests digitally.

5. Self-Blend Model

Definition:

This one’s about student choice. Students continue their regular schooling but also take extra online courses that they’re interested in. It could be a subject the school doesn’t offer or a topic they want to learn more about.

Implementation:

• Students find areas where they want to learn more.
• They sign up for online courses through school or on their own.
• These courses are done after school hours or during free time in the library or computer lab.
• The new knowledge is added to their regular learning.

Example:

Imagine a student who wants to learn robotics, but the school doesn’t have a robotics class. He enrolls in an online robotics program and works on it every day after school. He uses the school computer lab for this and even participates in competitions later on, using what he’s learned.

6. Online Driver Model

Definition:

In this model, everything is online. From lessons to assignments to assessments, it all happens digitally. In-person classes happen only if absolutely necessary.

Implementation:

• Students do all their coursework online.
• Teachers are available virtually for any questions or guidance.
• Students can set their own pace.
• Interaction happens over chat, forums, or video calls.

Example:

A student who has enrolled in a fully online school uses the Extramarks Learning App to attend classes, take quizzes, and submit assignments. He chats with his teachers during online office hours and meets classmates over Zoom-style video calls whenever there’s a project or presentation to do.

7. Flipped Classroom Model

Definition:

In the flipped classroom, students first learn new topics at home using online resources. Then, classroom time is used for questions, deeper understanding, and practice.

Implementation:

• Teachers assign videos or reading material as homework.
• In class, students work in groups to solve problems or do activities.
• The teacher guides them during class to clear doubts.
• This model helps make better use of classroom time.

Example:

A math teacher asks students to watch an Extramarks video on algebra at home. When they come to class the next day, they solve equations together in groups. The teacher walks around, helping those who are stuck or confused, making sure no one is left behind.

8. A La Carte Model

Definition:

This model lets students pick one or more online courses in addition to their regular school subjects. It’s like choosing from a menu, hence the name.

Implementation:

• Students choose subjects not available in school.
• They join online classes from approved platforms.
• They’re given time during or after school to attend these courses.
• Marks or grades from these online courses are added to their report card.

Example:

In a school in Mumbai, a student takes normal classes every day. But since French is not taught there, she signs up for a French course through Duolingo Classroom. She does her lessons online, finishes her homework, and gets credits for it on her report card.

9. Enriched Virtual Model

Definition:

This model is a mix of occasional in-person classes with mostly online learning. Students don’t have to come to school every day, but they still meet in person from time to time.

Implementation:

• Teachers schedule a few face-to-face sessions for labs or exams.
• Most lessons and homework are done online.
• Students manage their time and progress with support from teachers.
• These in-person sessions are used for practicals or tough topics.

Example:

A biology class meets once a week in school to do lab work. But the rest of the time, students use Extramarks to read the lessons, take quizzes, and watch experiment videos. Teachers help them over chat or video call if they get stuck.

10. Individual Rotation Model

Definition:

Each student follows their own learning schedule. Unlike the regular rotation model, not everyone moves through the same stations. Instead, each student goes to stations based on what they need.

Implementation:

• The teacher figures out what each student needs.
• A custom plan is made for each one.
• Some may do more online learning, some more group work, some more face-to-face time.
• Teachers adjust these plans as students improve.

Example:

In a primary school, a teacher uses Extramarks data to see that a few students need extra help in reading. These students spend more time on the app’s reading modules, while others move on to project work or math practice. Each student gets exactly what they need to do better.

Closing Thoughts

Blended learning offers many ways to mix online and classroom teaching to suit different needs. Understanding these models can help you find what works best for your students. It opens up new chances for students to learn in ways that fit them. Keep exploring and see how these ideas can make your teaching more flexible and fun.

Last Updated on June 27, 2025