Blended and online instruction are hot topics, but what are the real benefits and challenges associated with these models?

And what is "blended" anyway? To some, it just means a hybrid of face-to-face (f2f) and online. 

Blended learning is more than just using online technology in class or doing whole class activities with online course materials though. It often substitutes for some in-class contact hours. Most importantly, blended learning gives students a chance to work independently and to experience a variety of learning modalities that are best suited to their needs and preferences.

Post a comment with your thoughts about what "blended" means (or should mean). Is it improtant to have a consensus definition of this?

The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly of Online Instruction

Some of the obvious benefits of online instruction are that it allows students greater access to more courses, helps facilitate differentiated learning, and give teachers more options in how they teach. Online learning allows for teachers and students to teach and learn anywhere or anyplace.

Some of the disadvantages can include different expectations for teachers, student access issues, and the fact that online learning may not suit every learner.

Post your own thoughts about the advantages and disadvantages of online instruction for your own student population. (If you have a blog and want to write about this there, just post a link.)