Successful introduction of blended learning in medical education: Strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and challenges

Abstract

The stream of medicine is rapidly changing with each day, and to meet the wide range of expectations of the members of the community, a corresponding change in the process of medical training is also essential. Blended learning refers to a teaching-learning approach that comprises a systematic amalgamation of both conventional and online learning. The adoption of blended learning in medical education delivery tends to overcome the drawbacks of conventional and online learning. We must acknowledge that blended learning not only is cost-effective but also enhances learning, disseminates information, and plays an important role in creating a network of learners. To conclude, the introduction of blended learning in medical education delivery is an important curricular reform for the benefit of medical students. It is the need of the hour to systematically explore the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and challenges, and then takes a well-informed call about the planning and implementation of blended learning in medical institutions.