EMBED+ Backgrounds and draft model

This document introduces the new European Maturity Model for Blended Education, developed through the EMBED+ initiative to support higher education institutions (HEIs) in enhancing their blended practices. Building on the original EMBED project, the model has been updated, upgraded and refined based on evidence from use case assessments, a systematic review of studies, and additional insights presented throughout this document. This ensures that the model is both practically relevant and grounded in research, providing institutions with clear guidance for improving blended education across diverse European contexts. By translating evidence into actionable recommendations, the model offers maturity levels, dimensions and indicators, which give way to pathways and practical tools that can guide HEIs in their strategic planning. At the same time, it aligns with broader European digital education goals, fostering professional development, transnational collaboration, and equitable access to high-quality blended teaching and learning (BT&L). In this way, the model serves as both a diagnostic tool and a roadmap for advancing institutional capacity and Europe’s leadership in digital education.