The objective of this book is help the reader understand the possibilities blending two or more learning technology applications or methods so that learners can get the knowledge and skills they need. The book does not argue that classroom experiences are going to disappear tomorrow, but rather that technology offer many opportunities to support classroom training in ways never before possible. This book is about creating a carefully prepared and selected mix of learning technology applications. The accompanying electronic materials, available via download, illustrate how two world-class organizations created blended approaches based on training needs and requirements. The book is divided into three sections. The first section outlines the challenges presented to trainers in the new age of e-learning and points up the necessity for a solid e-learning strategy. It helps the reader set the stage to begin the journey to blended e-learning and helps the reader put into practice what experience has already taught them.
Section two presents important case studies that show the reader how other companies are blending e-learning successfully and provide beneficial "real word" lessons for the reader. The case studies include examples of successful e-learning programs from the manufacturing, academic, retail, and financial/consulting services sectors.
Section three, shows the reader how to get started on blending e-learning. It will help the reader make informed, logical, and strategically sound decisions regarding the blending of learning technologies. The section also includes the research results two articles by leading practitioners of blended e-learning.
