Abstract:

Objective:
The objective of this study is to carry out a systematic review of published information to determine if the blended learning approach is better than traditional learning, to help students in higher education globally within the 21st century. This study highlights multiple dimensions of both approaches and associated technological issues, before proposing a strategy to progress learning during and post the COVID-19 pandemic crisis.

Methods:
A systematic review has been carried out by means of a literature search in the subject of traditional and blended learning. Databases and other information sources related to these learning approaches and technological issues have been searched. Positive and negative aspects of each learning approach have been identified and are classified into three categories: students, teachers and technological challenges.

Results:
It has been identified that traditional learning has been the teacher’s preference, as face-to-face interaction has been habitual and has gained positive results over the years within higher education institutions. The strict lockdown measures during the COVID-19 crisis forced academic institutions to close, which facilitated traditional learning to cease. For education to continue, a rapid transition to remote learning has taken place. The habit of using technology to learn has strengthened during the pandemic, but requires motivation, critical thinking and knowledge of technological hardware, software and stable internet connectivity combined with adequate educator support to ensure academic success. There is greater student engagement, efficiency, communication and different materials for appropriate learning styles. Currently, students have returned to their educational institutions with the ease of lockdown measures to learn in the traditional way. However, this can lead to psychological distress due to rapid changes in learning approaches. Therefore, currently the blended learning approach is being utilized more than in previous years. It has proved an effective way of educating students living in the technological era.

Conclusion:
The COVID-19 global pandemic has disrupted traditional learning, but there has been an attempt to replicate the process through online platforms. This has highlighted many novel ways of using technology; through video conferencing, chat functions, hand raising and breakout rooms to facilitate group sessions. All of which are used in traditional learning in the physical sense. Students and teachers have the flexibility to work at their convenience, save time and finances in travel and stationery. This study had deduced that the blended learning approach is a transitory way of progressing students through the COVID-19 pandemic and will remain the most effective mode of learning in the future despite technological challenges.

Keywords:

Blended learning, COVID-19, Education, Technology, Traditional learning.