Distance and Blended Learning
Distance Learning is implemented because the students are not in the same location as the educators/teachers. Naturally, this was done considering that to prevent the transmission of the spread of the Covid-19 virus, schools were closed and health protocols were enforced by keeping a distance. Model Distance Learning / Distance Learning can be done by holding online learning activities such as conferences, webinars, classes or self-study programs.
The advantage of Distance Learning / Distance Learning is that students can carry out learning activities at their own pace.
They also don’t need to come or attend school, they just do it from home so they can be more comfortable studying. Even though students are doing distance learning from home, they can still learn in synchronous mode, i.e. they can study at the same time as their peers.
In addition, they can also learn in asynchronous mode, where each student can choose their own time for distance learning. Meanwhile, Blended Learning is a learning strategy that combines face-to-face learning with distance learning. This strategy can be considered an appropriate method to be applied during this pandemic.
There are several models in Blended Learning or Mixed Learning. Currently, Noble Academy is using a Blended Learning model in the form of a Flipped Classroom. Flipped Classroom is a learning model in which students before studying in class, they study the material first at home according to the assignments given by the teacher.
Then, students come to class/school according to a predetermined schedule, to confirm the understanding of learning that has been done, discuss things that are still not understood, or can also carry out experiments that cannot be done at home. In addition, in class/school, teachers can also invite students to discuss in small groups to deepen the material being studied.
Upon returning from school, students can return to reflecting on their learning outcomes at home or can also learn new things as assigned by the teacher, so the cycle repeats itself.
With the Flipped Classroom model described above, students at Noble Academy do not need to attend school every day. They came to Noble Academy according to a predetermined schedule. Students will work on assignments at home for three or four days and go to school to study in class for one day.
The Flipped Classroom model will also train students to manage their study time well, and teachers also feel they have more time to interact with students so that teachers can equip students with the ability to think critically (critical thinking), to be able to work together (collaboratively). ), to be able to communicate (communication skills), to be able to think creatively and innovatively (creative/innovative).
According to Suyanto in Suhardi (2020), based on research on the implementation of the flipped classroom model conducted in several schools in the United States and in Indonesia, it was found that schools that use this model have very high learning motivation and are active in class. In addition, there is a better improvement in terms of creativity, responsibility, and academic achievement when compared to using the traditional learning model.
For the considerations previously mentioned, that is why Noble Academy uses Distance and Blended Learning with the Flipped Classroom model in its teaching and learning activities.