Pre e-learning and non e-learning usages

As with many things prefixed with 'e-' (originally standing for "electronic", but eventually more specifically applied to the involvement of computer-based or more recently Internet-based technology) the e-learning aspect of blended learning can often mislead the unwary into believing that it is the defining constituent of 'multi-resource' educational approaches.

Those involved in school education (as opposed to many of those responsible for developing occupational training resources) are often more familiar with 'combined resource' educational tools that do not necessarily involve computer technology:

Classroom based audio-tape resources (language laboratories);Auditorium multimedia visual resources (movie projectors, slideshows, VCRs);

Textual resources: textbooks, exercise books (although these are obviously the mainstay of traditional school educational resources, they are actually a neglected and under-valued potential component of e-learning-based blended learning);

Home-learning resources (video recordings, audio recordings)

Blackboard and whiteboard resources, including high-tech "printing whiteboards" and "online whiteboards";

Demonstration resources, including "museum exhibits", "laboratory experiments", live theatre, historic re-enactment, hands-on workshops, role-playing, etc;

Non-instructional education resources, such as examination, quizzes, invigilation, test-grading, etc.

The above, whilst they do not include e-learning, are nonetheless potential constituents of a blended learning approach.

Similarly, in the same way that "non-human resources" which are not e-learning are not included in many blended learning solutions, the human component of an e-learning-based blended learning arrangement does not need to be "high-tech".

Interaction with a human being in blended learning solutions is typically delivered through real-time chat systems or online message boards or email. However, telephone contact with a tutor or trainer may be just as effective and potentially far more reassuring to the learner.