Blended Learning: An overview

1. Blended Learning: An overview Sandra Dowie, MA, MBA E-Learning Development Officer Office of the Vice Provost (Information Technology) University of Alberta

2. Today, I will… • Define e-learning & blended learning • Provide an overview of ways blended learning may be used • Discuss factors to consider • Introduce the E-Learning Report 2005: A Foundation for Transformation

3. E-learning… • Is derived from “electronic” learning • Includes using the Internet, databases, videoconferencing, & wireless computing devices • Should be regarded as “facility” or a “tool” • Its effectiveness depends on the teaching methods employed

4. Blended learning… • Is also known as “flexible” or “distributed” learning • Includes face-to-face instruction • Incorporates technology enabled activities & digital resources

5. Traditional lecture Enhancement model Supplemental model Learning resource centre Online course Learning environments Blended learning Face-to-Face Instruction E-Learning

6. Supplemental approach to blended learning: • Number of lectures hours remains the same • E-learning may be used to: • Increase communication • Enrich content presentation • Provide practice exercises with feedback • Support case-based or problem-based learning

7. Replacement model of blended learning: • Lecture time is reduced & re-focused • E-learning may be used to: • Increase communication • Provide instruction • Provide practice exercises with feedback • Support case-based or problem-based learning

8. Learning resource centre: • There may be few, if any, lectures • Online materials provide instruction & practice – resources may be purchased or developed in-house • On-demand personal assistance is provided by the instructor &/or teaching assistants

9. Goals for using blended learning… • Increase communication with & among students • Supplement or replace direct instruction • Increase opportunity for practice with feedback • Promote deeper learning through case-based & problem-based activities • May be used as part of a cost containment strategy • Increase accessibility/convenience of programs

10. When planning to use blended learning consider… • Nature of the course content • Capabilities & interests of the students • Appropriate active learning strategies • Teaching preferences of the instructor(s) • Support systems – for instructor & learners • Technology infrastructure available • Cost-effectiveness

11. The E-Learning Report proposes strategies for.. • Ensuring reliable e-learning systems • Comprehensive professional development programs • Both instructional design & technical support • Combining faculty-based & central support • Funding for special projects • Preparing our learners for success • Evaluating learning outcomes • Recognizing faculty contributions

12. To read more on this topic… E-Learning Report 2005: A Foundation for Transformation www.vpit.ualberta.ca/elearning_plan/ sandra.dowie@ualberta.ca