Online Learning vs Blended Learning: What's the Difference?

Online and blended learning may seem similar, but there are key differences that could make one a better fit for you over the other. Understanding these differences can help you choose the best study option for your lifestyle and career goals!

What is online learning? 

Self-paced online learning is all about studying at your own pace, as and when it suits you. Unlike traditional classroom-based courses, there are no fixed schedules, meaning you can schedule your learning around your job, family, and personal commitments.

This delivery option is ideal for those working full-time or anyone juggling responsibilities who would benefit from a little added flexibility. Whether you prefer studying in the evenings, early mornings, or weekends, you're in control of your progress.

Offered by universities and distance learning providers, online learning typically means you'll gain access to your course materials fully online. This not only saves you money on textbooks but your commute to class too! Plus, online learning takes most individuals 40% to 60% less time than in-person learning, freeing up more of your valuable time. 

What is blended learning? 

Blended learning is the best of both worlds if you enjoy a mix of self-paced learning and peer interaction.

Typically combining face-to-face teaching with online study, blended learning offers you the structure of classroom learning while still enjoying the flexibility of online learning in between. 

With a blended course, students follow a fixed schedule for in-person sessions, where they can interact with tutors and classmates, ask questions, and take part in discussions. However, the majority of the coursework, assignments, and extra study are completed online.

At DPG, our blended learning programmes are a little bit different though! Instead of scheduled in-person classes, we schedule virtual classes per unit of study to make this delivery method even more convenient for you! 

Online Learning vs. Blended Learning: Which is Right for You? 

Since there's no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, here’s a breakdown of the key pros and cons to help you decide which suits your learning style, lifestyle, and career goals.

Online Learning Pros:

• Ultimate flexibility: Study anytime, anywhere, at your own pace.
• Perfect for busy schedules: Fit learning around work, family, and personal commitments.
• No travel required: Learn from the comfort of your home and save on gas, train or bus fare.

Online Learning Cons:

• Requires self-discipline: You’ll need to stay motivated without set class times.
• No in-person interaction: All learning, tutor support, and networking happen online.

Blended Learning Pros:

• Real-time support: You'll benefit from interacting with tutors as you learn.
• Structured learning: Set class schedules help keep you on track.
• Best of both worlds: Enjoy the flexibility of online study with peer interaction.

Blended Learning Cons:

• Less flexibility: You’ll need to attend scheduled in-person (or virtual) sessions.
• Potential travel: This may require commuting to a learning centre or university. 
• Fixed timetables: You might need to adjust your schedule to fit class times.

Remember, both options provide high-quality materials, dedicated support, and first-rate skills development! It’s all about what works best for you.

Online Learning with DPG

At DPG, we know that flexibility matters – and that’s why we offer both online and blended learning options for our CIPD courses!

Whether you're looking to kickstart or advance in your HR or L&D career, you can choose the study method that fits your lifestyle.

We offer the full suite of CIPD qualifications, which include: 

• CIPD Level 3 Foundation Certificate in People Practice
  
• CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in People Management
  
• CIPD Level 5 Associate Diploma in Organisational Learning & Development
  
• CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma in Strategic People Management
• CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma in Strategic Learning & Development

Whichever route you take – 100% online or blended learning – you’ll get 24/7 access to our virtual learning platform, mystudyspace, and expert support from your dedicated tutor. 

And bonus! You'll gain unlimited access to the DPG Career Hub, which is full of interactive and useful career tools, like our CV builder and interview simulator. 

*Please note that our PRINCE2 and CMI courses are only available as self-paced online courses.


Learn your way and enrol on a CIPD qualification today!