• Posted 27-Dec-2021

Blended learning: Building more resilient education and training systems

Education ministers adopted a Council Recommendation on blended learning approaches for high-quality and inclusive primary and secondary education on 29 November 2021.

What is blended learning?

‘Blended learning' is the term used in formal education and training to describe when a school, educator or student takes more than one approach to the learning process.

It may combine learning at school and in other environments, such as companies, training centres, distance learning, outdoors, at cultural sites, as well as different (non-)digital learning tools. 

About the recommendation

The Council Recommendation includes both short- and long-term measures to address the most pressing challenges and inequalities exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

It strives to achieve long-term preparedness by blending learning environments and tools in primary and secondary education and training. Its recommendations distinguish between support to learners, teachers and schools.

The adoption of the Council Recommendation follows the Commission proposal from 5 August 2021.

How will the Commission support its implementation?

The Commission will support the full implementation of the Recommendation by facilitating mutual learning and exchanges between European Union (EU) Member States and all relevant stakeholders.

Existing dialogue forums, such as Working Groups, set up under the European Education Area and the Digital Education Action Plan and online education and training platforms and communities, for example the School Education Gateway and eTwinning, will also support implementation.

An accompanying practical handbook on blended learning provides research, evidence and tools that can inspire stakeholders to support change in schools at the regional, national and EU levels. 

Source: European Commission I European Education Area (https://bit.ly/3yYR3NC)