Increasing mathematical proficiency and students character: lesson from the implementation of blended learning in junior high school in Bali

Abstract

This article documents the experience and lessons from implementing a blended learning model aimed at increasing the mathematical proficiency and student character of 8 graders of junior high school students in Bali. It presents some series of mixed method-research result during 2016-2018. Lessons from the experience for the future implementation of blended learning model that can enhance the success of blended learning programs in junior high school are : (1) assessing school and teacher readiness for using blended learning program, (2) facilitating students and teacher with adequate learning sources, (2) increasing teacher competence (a) in designing lesson media such as clear and interesting tutorial videos, and authentic student tasks, (b) in developing strategy to facilitate meaningful students discussion forum, (c) in challenging students to develop higher order thinking, (3) in developing students character such as curiosity, critical thinking, hard work, the sense of community, cooperation and collaboration. The article concludes that enhancing the teacher competence in implementing blended learning program plays a very important role in increasing students mathematical proficiency and their character.