Key steps to implementing a successful blended learning strategy

Abstract

Purpose

This paper proposes to illustrate how organisations can successfully establish a blended learning environment.

Design/methodology/approach

Provides a structure for combining formal and informal learning resources within a blended learning model and outlines the eight key steps followed by organisations already implementing a successful integrated learning strategy. Draws on pedagogical information provided by Dorman Woodall, director of SkillSoft Learning, and includes data gathered from a variety of SkillSoft's Fortune 500 customers.

Findings

Many organisations now recognise that on‐demand solution finding is a primary source of employees' daily learning and are searching for ways to support this informal learning in tandem with their more formalised training programmes. Since both methods are essential to increasing workplace skills, tremendous strategic and tactical performance gains are available from this blending of formal training with informal learning. The ideal blended learning model is one that integrates a wide range of functions that empower learners with more control to participate in several formal and informal learning activities. The highest level of blended learning is an easily‐accessible and searchable combination of formal and informal learning with a learner‐centric focus.

Practical implications

Outlines an overall structure for implementing sequential formal training events and random informal blended learning activities.

Originality/value

Provides a blueprint for anyone seeking to introduce a blended learning strategy.

Citation

Baldwin‐Evans, K. (2006), "Key steps to implementing a successful blended learning strategy", Industrial and Commercial Training, Vol. 38 No. 3, pp. 156-163. https://doi.org/10.1108/00197850610659427