8 effective blended learning models to choose from
There’s no universal ‘best’ model, but there is a best model for your learners, your content, and your training style. Below, we break down each of the eight popular blended learning models. You’ll get a clear definition, practical examples, and guidance on how and when to use them.
First up, one of the most widely adopted models: the flipped classroom.
1. Blended learning model: flipped classroom
In this model, learners consume core content (like videos, readings, or interactive lessons) on their own before class. Then, live sessions are used for applying what they’ve learned through discussion, coaching, or hands-on activities. The goal is to move passive learning out of the classroom and make in-person time more interactive and valuable.
Best for: Theory-heavy training.
Example: Trainees review leadership theory through short videos and come to class ready to role-play or unpack real scenarios.
Trainer tip: Keep pre-class materials short and focused. Pair them with a reflective question or quiz to boost retention. Use classroom time to coach, clarify, and go deeper.
Why trainers love it: It turns your live sessions into hands-on sessions where learners can practice, get feedback, and clarify tough concepts.
2. Blended learning model: station rotation
Learners rotate through different stations, each offering a specific type of activity such as online modules, live coaching, or group work. Everyone cycles through all stations during the session, either in a set order or based on a schedule. It’s a way to mix formats in a single block of time while keeping the energy high and the focus varied.
Best for: Sales training, interactive workshops, hands-on skills.
Example: In a sales bootcamp, one station has trainees reviewing product videos, another has them practicing pitches with a coach, and a third is a group role-play using objection-handling scenarios.
Trainer tip: Use a timer and a printed station map to keep sessions on track.
Why trainers love it: Learners stay active and alert, switching between formats and tasks.
3. Blended learning model: lab rotation
This model is similar to station rotation, but the online learning happens in a specific physical space (like a computer lab or designated training room) rather than on personal devices. Learners rotate between in-person instruction and structured digital activities, but the tech work is concentrated in one location. It’s especially effective when the digital component requires focus, supervision, or access to specific tools.
Best for: Technical training, certifications, data-heavy skills.
Example: Learners complete a financial modeling module in a computer lab, then regroup in class to analyze and present real business case studies using the data.
Trainer tip: Schedule lab sessions for quieter, focused periods. They’re ideal for deep work.
Why trainers love it: It ensures learners get uninterrupted digital time without distractions.
4. Blended learning model: project-based
Learners complete a real-world project over an extended period of time (think weeks or months even). The project drives the learning process, supported by online research, digital collaboration tools, and periodic in-person or live coaching. This model emphasizes problem-solving, creativity, and teamwork, all anchored in a practical outcome.
Best for: Leadership training, strategic thinking.
Example: A marketing team is tasked with creating a new campaign strategy for a real product. Over four weeks, they conduct competitor analysis using online tools, collaborate via Miro and Confluence, and meet weekly with a trainer to review progress and get feedback. The final presentation is delivered live to stakeholders.
Trainer tip: Provide templates and checkpoints to keep projects on track.
Why trainers love it: Encourages collaboration, problem-solving, and deep learning.
5. Blended learning model: individual rotation
Each learner moves through different learning activities (like online modules, coaching sessions, or group work) based on a personalized plan. They don’t all follow the same sequence, and they might skip certain activities altogether, depending on their goals or skill level. The trainer sets the available options and criteria, while the path is tailored to the learner.
Best for: Self-paced training, onboarding, performance improvement plans.
Example: In a tech upskilling course, learners progress at their own pace through online content, live support, and practical exercises.
Trainer tip: Use a learning management system (LMS) with learner analytics to track progress and adapt training paths.
Why trainers love it: You can deliver personalized learning without 1:1 time for every learner.
6. Blended learning model: enriched virtual model
Training happens mostly online, with occasional live check-ins or workshops for deeper discussion, clarification, feedback, or interactive activities. These check-ins aren’t the main delivery method but provide valuable touchpoints to reinforce learning and build connection.
Best for: Remote teams, consultants, part-time learners.
Example: A remote HR team completes an online compliance course covering diversity and inclusion policies. Once a month, they attend live Zoom sessions to role-play real workplace scenarios and discuss policy interpretation.
Trainer tip: Use live sessions for conversation and connection, not just to recap content.
Why trainers love it: Keeps learners connected without needing frequent meetings.
7. Blended learning model: a la carte
Learners choose optional online modules to complement a core, required in-person program. The trainer curates a range of extras (like certifications or niche skill topics) and learners pick what best supports their personal or professional goals. It’s flexible but still guided.
Best for: Lifelong learners, CPD programs.
Example: Accountants attend a core in-person workshop on new tax regulations, then choose from optional online CPD modules such as sustainability reporting to deepen their expertise.
Trainer tip: Curate a clear learning path so learners don’t feel overwhelmed by choice.
Why trainers love it: Gives learners freedom without increasing your workload.
8. Blended learning model: flex
This model puts online learning at the center, with support available as needed. Learners work through the content independently and reach out for guidance when required. It’s ideal for scaling training while still offering a human touch when needed.
Best for: Large-scale onboarding, internal academies, certification programs.
Example: New hires at a software company complete an onboarding program with recorded product demos, company values training, and interactive quizzes. Coaches hold twice-weekly office hours to answer questions and support progress.
Trainer tip: Offer office hours or live Q&A to reduce isolation and increase success rates.
Why trainers love it: You can train hundreds of learners at once, without being glued to Zoom.
Who benefits the most from blended learning?
Short answer: everyone. But here’s how it specifically helps you as a trainer:
Learners get flexibility, personalization, and more engaging experiences.
Trainers get to scale programs, reuse content, and spend more time coaching.
Organizations get better-trained teams, reduced time-to-competence, and measurable impact.
Blended learning gives you the power to meet people where they are, all while keeping quality consistent.
Easy LMS: a smart platform for blended learning success
Feeling inspired to implement one (or more) of these models? Then it's time to make delivery effortless. Here’s how Easy LMS helps you train smarter:
✅ Combine face-to-face and online courses with ease.
✅ Reuse your materials across customers and programs.
✅ Create branded learning portals for each customer.
✅ Assess participant understanding through fully customizable exams.
✅ Launch end-to-end certification training (perfect for compliance).
✅ Track performance, access detailed reports, and give learners and customers real-time progress.
✅ Save hours on admin so you can focus on your learners.
The standout feature is our academy. It lets you organize everything in one virtual space, create an unlimited number of customer-specific portals, and deliver consistent quality.
Set up your account and explore how easy it is to build, organize, and deliver blended training that actually works. Take it the easy way!
Usefil sources
