Blended Learning : Emerging as an innovative practice in new normal

Abstract After the outbreak of the coronavirus, the digital divide is adversely affecting the educational system. High-quality learning with the help of digital infrastructure can only be achieved by addressing digital gaps, which will change the landscape of school education forever. To address these challenges in online education, higher education institutions need to provide professional development for instructors, training for learners, and technical support for content development. Blended learning is a new technique of teaching that offers students a multitude of real-world skills which involve combining online with face to face teaching methods. In order to ensure continuous learning, online education is building collaboration between students, parents, and educators by strengthening connections. But due to the lack of access to a digital device and internet connection has made it harder for most of the students. There is a need to work toward this by building a solid education system to address the gaps in learning, especially for students who belong to low-income families who have suffered. In the face of the covid 19 circumstances, educational discrepancies become even more apparent. To bridge the digital divide and overcome the effects of crises in a sustained manner, In order to be inclusive, educational ecosystems must respond from a place of empathy. Blended learning brings the best of both online study and face-to-face learning - helping students stay motivated and engaged. However, to truly boost student engagement and learning outcomes, faculty must move away from computerized solutions and towards more flexible and active learning methods