Blended Learning as a Good Practice in ESL Courses Compared to F2F Learning and Online Learning

Abstract

Blended learning has been studied for many years. However, it is necessary to assess whether blended learning is a good practice as opposed to face-to-face and online learning. Based on the Seven Principles for Good Practice in Undergraduate Education, a questionnaire was designed to compare blended learning in seven dimensions to traditional and online learning. A total of 653 students participated in the research. Independent T-test, paired T-test and ANCOVA were conducted using SPSS. The results showed that blended learning was reported to have a higher effectiveness than traditional learning for all seven principles and a higher effectiveness than online learning for most of the principles. Learning modes had a significant effect on student perceptions on most of the principles. Gender had significant effect on student perception of all seven principles, while year of study and knowledge domain did not show significant effects on most of the principles. Possible reasons for these findings are discussed.