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Blended learning has become a huge focus for modern school reform especially within K-12 education. We’re also seeing a good bit of experimenting at the university level, like Carnegie Mellon’s recent testing of blended learning in computer science courses.
Why? Blended learning can allow for a more personalized education, cut costs and increase student productivity.
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It can also be beneficial for technical training programs. There are quite a few schools locally that have already enlisted blended learning strategies for their technical training programs, including New River Community College, Patrick Henry Community College and Northern Virginia Community College.
The combination of face-to-face learning and online learning doesn’t work well for every technical subject, but it can certainly add value to a few types of programs. Here are a few examples:
PLC Programs
Simulation and control software combined with real hardware amplifies the Programmable Logic Control (PLC) systems learning experience.
Take, for example, PLC 3D simulation software. Simulations of industrial systems allow students to learn and practice automation technologies commonly found in the real world through lifelike interactive experiences.
Of course interface with the real world is also critical. Simulation software alone cannot fully prepare students for their future jobs. Real equipment that can communicate with your simulation software is integral to helping students develop skills in operating, programming, and troubleshooting modern PLC-controlled systems
Robotics and Automation
Robotics 3D simulation software for modeling and programming robotic workcells is an ideal application for blended learning. Students can easily learn the history and vocabulary of robots, understand what makes a robot work, and write programs for robots in pre-designed workcells all before any hands-on training.
Process Control Training
When designing a process control course you’ll set the objective to first familiarize students with the fundamentals of instrumentation and process control. Simulation software can provide baseline knowledge of the control of pressure, flow, level, temperature, and pH processes in industrial environments.
Combined with physical training systems, students can also learn advanced process control techniques, such as feed-forward control, second-order control, and cascade control when used with a controller featuring these functions.
Mechatronics Programs
Similar to process control training programs, mechatronics-based e-Learning software creates that baseline knowledge before hands-on training. Students will have access to assembly drawings, schematics and data sheets for different aspects of mechatronic systems. This allows for a complete understanding of the relationships between components of a complex mechatronics system before hands-on training even begins.
For example, ask students to – using software – plan and organize their work flow, run a simulation, then troubleshoot and repair virtually. They will gain an understanding of energy flow in electrical, pneumatic and hydraulic sub-systems in a virtual environment, which can later be strengthened when these same exercises are performed on physical training systems.
It’s the preparation on simulation software beforehand that ensures students receive maximum value from the classroom/lab phase. You’d be surprised how students who have worked through the simulation first have a greater understanding of how the system and the exercise functions – and how much more productive and efficient this will inevitably make your classroom.
Hydraulics and Pneumatics
The typical blended learning approach can also be applied to classrooms with more students than training equipment.
Imagine you have one hydraulics training system, one pneumatics training system, one motor controls training system and one process control training system. Then imagine that you have 10 seats of simulation software installed on your computers in your lab.
Half of your students are able to complete their lab exercises in simulation while the remaining students are working in teams on the training systems, and then both sides can switch. This can be a huge cost saver when budgets are tight yet each and every student deserves a top notch educational experience.
The benefits of blended learning programs are undeniable. Cost savings are achieved through more productive labs and students are ultimately better off because of the multi-faceted approach they took to learning the concepts and physical exercises involved with their field of study.
Are you using blended learning in your programs? Let us know how it’s working for you.
