ISSN:1005-3026

BLENDED MODE OF TEACHING-LEARNING/BLENDED LEARNING (BL): NEP 2020, HISTORICAL COMPULSIONS, AND EMERGENCE OF BL AS NEW NORMAL

Dr. Thangasamy Milton1
 Professor and Dean, Tourism & Hospitality Management, Bharath Institute of Higher Education & Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

Dr. Ranjit Kumar2
Lecturer in History, Government Degree College, Cumbum,
Prakasam, Andhra Pradesh, India

Dr. S. Sundarapandian3
Professor & Head, Dept. of Anatomy,
 SRM Medical College Hospital And Research Centre,
SRM Nagar, Potheri, Chengalpattu, Tamil Nadu, India
E-mail: sssspandian@gmail.com

Dr Bibha Rani Nath4
Associate Professor, Dept. of Education, Janata College,
Serfanguri, BTD, Assam, India

Dr Rajesh Babu Pammi5
(Corresponding Author)
Research Head, Research Board for Education Technology,
Research India Foundation, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India
E-mail: rajeshbabupammi@gmail.com

The Blended Learning (BL) model, catalyzed by the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and encouraged by University Grants Commission (UGC) of India, reflects a dynamic shift in the educational landscape, propelled by historical imperatives and the contemporary demand for flexibility. NEP 2020, a comprehensive reform in India’s education system, underscores the need for innovative pedagogies, aligning seamlessly with the emergent paradigm of BL. This model integrates traditional classroom instruction with digital elements, offering a multifaceted approach to teaching and learning. Historically, the rigid structures of education faced challenges in accommodating diverse learning styles and adapting to technological advancements. This paper discusses the advent of blended mode of teaching-learning in a big scale as a solution, bridging the gap between conventional methodologies and the demands of the digital age. The new normal necessitated by the global circumstances further accelerates the adoption of BL, providing resilience and adaptability to the educational ecosystem. BL not only meets the requirements of NEP 2020 but also addresses the broader call for inclusivity, personalization, and self-directed learning. The abstract nature of BL allows students to navigate their educational journey at their pace, fostering autonomy and critical thinking. As a transformative force, BL stands at the intersection of tradition and innovation, poised to redefine the contours of education in the 21st century.
KEYWORDS: BL, Blended learning, Blended mode of teaching-learning, E-learning, NEP 2020, Digital learning, Hybrid learning, Online learning