Options
Blended learning approach in mentoring using Web based learning and face to face facilitation
Author
Ebnuarabi Etheris
Supervisor
Williams, Michael D.
Abstract
This study explores the benefits of incorporating blended learning to acquire mentoring skills. A hybrid-training program that will use web-based learning, complemented by an instructor led training session to acquire attitude, skills and knowledge required for a mentor. A study on several self-help organizations indicated these organizations did not adequately train their volunteers who undertook mentoring roles. One organization that reported 270 volunteer mentors have in place a 3 hour briefing session to prepare their mentors for this role. Another self help organization, do incorporate a systematic training program, however, they have not used e-learning as a methodology to train their mentors. The Haven children’s home, on the other hand indicated their need to train their mentors and hence, this organization became the recipient of this blended learning program.
Participants for this research were volunteers from the National University of Singapore. They were first year students who organized activities and programs for the children at the Haven children’s home. The 12 undergraduates and 2 staff from the home were enrolled in this blended learning program that incorporated half the learning curriculum for mentoring on the web and the other half conducted by an instructor for half a day. Participants were required to complete 4 modules of self-directed e-learning before they attended the face-to-face learning session. The blended learning program was initiated over a four weeks period. It took place during the participant’s own preparation for their first year undergraduate examination.
Blended learning methodologies adopted by other researches were explored in this study. The processes involved in undertaking training needs analysis and its benefits will be reviewed. Participant’s motivations to embark on such a program will be explored in this study. This study will show how a simple learning management system can be adopted using Yahoo as a depository site. How e-mails and mobile technology be used to remind participants of module uploads and task completion will be shared in this study. Other them a depository site for the learning materials, the Yahoo portal also acts as a secure site where the forum was placed and a database used to update "class" participation on the web.
This study culminates with understanding on the impact of this program on the participants using level 1 and level 2 evaluation strata of the Kirkpatrick evaluation model. Pre and post assessment surveys were included in this study to evaluate learning with an end of course evaluation. Participant’s frank assessment of this program and the benefits of using this methodology will be shared.
Participants for this research were volunteers from the National University of Singapore. They were first year students who organized activities and programs for the children at the Haven children’s home. The 12 undergraduates and 2 staff from the home were enrolled in this blended learning program that incorporated half the learning curriculum for mentoring on the web and the other half conducted by an instructor for half a day. Participants were required to complete 4 modules of self-directed e-learning before they attended the face-to-face learning session. The blended learning program was initiated over a four weeks period. It took place during the participant’s own preparation for their first year undergraduate examination.
Blended learning methodologies adopted by other researches were explored in this study. The processes involved in undertaking training needs analysis and its benefits will be reviewed. Participant’s motivations to embark on such a program will be explored in this study. This study will show how a simple learning management system can be adopted using Yahoo as a depository site. How e-mails and mobile technology be used to remind participants of module uploads and task completion will be shared in this study. Other them a depository site for the learning materials, the Yahoo portal also acts as a secure site where the forum was placed and a database used to update "class" participation on the web.
This study culminates with understanding on the impact of this program on the participants using level 1 and level 2 evaluation strata of the Kirkpatrick evaluation model. Pre and post assessment surveys were included in this study to evaluate learning with an end of course evaluation. Participant’s frank assessment of this program and the benefits of using this methodology will be shared.
Date Issued
2006
Call Number
LB1028.5 Ebn
Date Submitted
2006