Options
Exploratory study on blended learning
Author
Foo, Khee Loon
Supervisor
Cheung, Wing Sum
Abstract
This dissertation is an exploratory study on blended learning to capture the design considerations and principles that instructional designers use to formulate blended learning packages for a given learning context. The key motivation for this study stems from the need to document a structured methodology or approach that any budding instructional designers can use to develop a blended learning that is customised to their specific learning environment. The very nature of the term blended learning suggests that there is no one overarching model that can be adopted as a basis for curriculum development (Adams et al., 2006). One of the most intriguing challenges seems to be in determining the right “blend” between face to face and various online Computer Mediated Communication (CMC) activities. Hence, in order to realise the full benefits of blended learning that is tailored to meet the diverse needs of the learners, it is important to document methodically the cardinal factors and design process and procedure involved. A qualitative research method was utilized in the study. Data were collected from interviews conducted with seven subject matter experts with at least five years’ experience in blended learning. Content analysis approach was used to identify and synthesize the rationale and principle considerations that the SMEs adopted in their design process. Findings from this study show that there are domain areas that these SMEs consistently emphasize; key being the pedagogical design and clarity of the learning outcomes from the very onset. There is also consistency in rationale and methodology that the SMEs use when developing their blended learning packages. This reinforces the importance that each mode of learning (face-to-face and e-learning) plays in the overall implementation of blended learning. It is thus impractical to negate the effects of either mode of learning by downplaying one for the other. Rather, to derive the highest payoffs from any blended learning package, it is important for instructional designers to understanding and contextualizes the value that each mode of learning brings to the learning environment. These insights from the study have also helped in mapping the important design factors into a refined design framework which can be used as a comprehensive guide in blended learning design.
Date Issued
2014
Call Number
LB1028.5 Foo
Date Submitted
2014