Guest post from Oluwatobi Ogunbanjo, @Acuppateaa
Keeping students engaged in today’s classrooms isn’t easy, is it? You try different teaching methods, but some students learn faster while others struggle to keep up. You see the bored faces, the unfinished assignments, the students zoning out, and it feels like no matter how hard you try, it’s never enough. And let’s be honest, it is frustrating and exhausting. But what if you could create a learning experience that meets students where they are, keeps them engaged, and makes your job easier? That’s exactly what blended learning does, and if done right, it keeps students engaged, personalises learning, and makes your life easier. In this blog post, we’ll break down 5 effective blended learning strategies that K-12 teachers like you can use in 2025 to make learning smoother, smarter, and more fun.
What is Blended Learning?
Blended learning is a teaching method that combines traditional face-to-face instruction with online learning. Students have some control over their learning pace while still benefiting from in-person support. Now, why does this matter? Well, education isn’t what it used to be. The pandemic shook things up, and suddenly, teachers and students had to adapt to a whole new way of learning. Fast forward to 2025, and blended learning isn’t just a trend; it’s becoming the new normal. It’s flexible, engaging, and meets students where they are (whether in the classroom or behind a screen). Plus, it’s proven to work. Studies show that blending online and in-person learning can boost student success, engagement, and even teacher satisfaction.
5 Effective Blended Learning Strategies for K-12
1. Flipped Classroom
Ever feel like there’s never enough time in class to cover everything? The flipped classroom is here to help. It’s a simple but powerful strategy that allows students to learn the basics at home through videos, slides, or readings and then use class time for discussions, activities, and hands-on practice.
This works because students can learn at their own pace at home and come to class ready to learn more. Also, you get more time to help students apply what they’ve learned and build critical thinking skills. To start, record short, engaging lessons using tools like Edpuzzle or Loom and assign them as homework. Then, use class time for group work, experiments, or Q&A sessions.
For example, your middle school science class can watch a video on the water cycle at home. The next day, instead of lecturing, you guide them through experiments and group discussions. It’s learning that’s both fun and effective!
2. Flex Learning Model
The flex model, also known as personalized learning, allows students to control their learning path, move through lessons at their own pace while teachers act as mentors, providing support when needed. To implement the flex model, integrate adaptive learning platforms like Khan Academy or DreamBox, set up a flexible schedule, and provide in-person support as needed. For instance, in a high school English class using the Flex Model, students log into an online learning platform to complete assignments, watch lectures, or participate in discussion forums—all at their own pace.
3. Hybrid Group Projects
Hybrid group projects are another strategy for blended learning. This strategy is perfect for K-12 teachers because it lets students work together no matter where they are. They learn to communicate, solve problems, and share ideas. These are skills they’ll need long after they leave your classroom. You can start by assigning small, mixed-ability groups and giving them clear goals. Use tools like Flipgrid for video discussions or Padlet for sharing ideas visually.
4. Station Rotation
This model keeps students engaged by allowing them to switch between different types of learning activities, including teacher-led instruction, digital practice, and small-group discussions. This works because it accommodates different learning styles, keeps lessons interactive, and helps reinforce concepts through different methods.
To implement this, set up learning stations in your classroom. One station can focus on direct instruction, another on online activities using tools like Google Classroom, and another on hands-on group work. For example, in an elementary math class, students might rotate between a teacher-led lesson on fractions, a hands-on game, and a digital practice session.
5. Face-to-face Driver Model
The face-to-face driver model keeps the traditional classroom setup intact but enhances it with digital tools to support and personalise learning. Teachers remain the central figures, guiding students while integrating online resources to reinforce lessons, provide extra practice, or introduce interactive activities. This strategy works well for students who need additional help without disrupting the entire class flow.
Tools like Kahoot, Quizlet, or adaptive learning platforms can help students grasp difficult concepts while keeping lessons engaging. To implement, start small. Use online quizzes to check understanding, assign digital reading materials, or incorporate interactive simulations. For example, a math teacher might explain a concept in class and then have students use an app for personalised problem-solving, ensuring they get targeted practice where they need it most.
Conclusion
Blended learning helps solve the daily challenges of teaching. Keeping students engaged, meeting different learning needs, and balancing in-person and online instruction can feel exhausting. But with the right strategies, students get to learn in ways that work best for them, and you can focus on meaningful teaching instead of constant catch-up. Try one of these blended learning models and see how it transforms your classroom.
About Rachelle
Dr. Rachelle Dené Poth is a Spanish and STEAM: What’s Next in Emerging Technology Teacher at Riverview High School in Oakmont, PA. Rachelle is also an attorney with a Juris Doctor degree from Duquesne University School of Law and a Master’s in Instructional Technology. Rachelle received her Doctorate in Instructional Technology, and her research focus was on AI and Professional Development. In addition to teaching, she is a full-time consultant and works with companies and organizations to provide PD, speaking, and consulting services. Contact Rachelle for your event!
Rachelle is an ISTE-certified educator and community leader who served as president of the ISTE Teacher Education Network. By EdTech Digest, she was named the EdTech Trendsetter of 2024, one of 30 K-12 IT Influencers to follow in 2021, and one of 150 Women Global EdTech Thought Leaders in 2022.
She is the author of ten books, including ‘What The Tech? An Educator’s Guide to AI, AR/VR, the Metaverse and More” and ‘How To Teach AI’. In addition, other books include, “In Other Words: Quotes That Push Our Thinking,” “Unconventional Ways to Thrive in EDU,” “The Future is Now: Looking Back to Move Ahead,” “Chart A New Course: A Guide to Teaching Essential Skills for Tomorrow’s World, “True Story: Lessons That One Kid Taught Us,” “Things I Wish […] Knew” and her newest “How To Teach AI” is available from ISTE or on Amazon.
Contact Rachelle to schedule sessions about Artificial Intelligence, Coding, AR/VR, and more for your school or event! Submit the Contact Form.
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Learning as I go: Reflections & lessons learned 