Which Is Better: Blended Learning vs. In-Person CPR class?

03-14-25

As an American Heart Association (AHA) CPR instructor, I’ve taught both blended learning and in-person training for years. Both get you certified, and each has its style. I’ll walk you through how they stack up—looking at hands-on practice, cost, and time—so you can pick what works for you.

What’s the Difference?

Blended learning splits things up: you do lessons online—like videos and quizzes—then come see me for a skills check. In-person training keeps it all in one place—you learn and practice with me in a single class. Both give you that AHA certification, but they feel a bit different.

Hands-On Practice

In-person training gives you plenty of time on a mannequin. I’m right there, helping you tweak things—like pushing deeper or keeping the rhythm steady. It’s nice to have that extra practice. Blended learning has a skills part too, but it’s quick. You do the online stuff first, then show up to practice for a bit. It works, though most people say they’d like more time with the hands-on practice. Plus, you get to learn how to handle unique emergencies from the experience of the CPR instructor.

Cost

Cost-wise, blended learning is a little bit more expensive. You purchase online access to videos, then pay an American Heart Association training site, like Alpha Bravo First Aid, separately for the skills session. In-person training is one fee, and that’s it. Blended can add up, while in-person feels straightforward. Either way, you’re getting a skill worth having.

Time

Blended learning lets you do the online part—about 2 hours—whenever you want, and then you schedule a skills session for 1-2 hours. It’s flexible, but it’s two steps. In-person training is completed in one session. You come in, learn, practice, and get CPR or First Aid certified. Some like the spread-out option, but there’s something nice about wrapping it up in one go. If you live far away from an American Heart Association Training Center, blended CPR may be superior.

What Stands Out

With in-person, I get more time to guide you. I can answer questions on the spot and make sure you’re feeling good about it. Blended is solid too, but I only see you for the short skills part, so it’s less to work with. Both do the job—just depends on what you’re after. Lastly, when we surveyed ten students who took blended CPR courses and then tried in-person, 100% of those students preferred in-person training.

Final Thoughts

Blended learning fits if you’re juggling a lot or live far from a class. In-person might be worth a look if you like hands-on time and keeping it simple. I’ve seen both work, but there’s something about in-person that feels a little smoother. Want to check it out? Visit the AHA website for classes near you. Got questions? I’m around to help.