STUDENTS' PERCEPTIONS TOWARDS BLENDED LEARNING IN TEACHING AND LEARNING ECONOMICS

Abstract

Blended learning or mixed learning is a concept that refers to the blending of traditional (physical) learning methods and new learning methods based on e-learning (e-learning, m-learning). In recent years blended learning has gained considerable popularity in training and education and in higher education especially. In this era of technology, where electronic resources are accessible at all times, blended learning has an impact on both the teacher and the student. The teacher works better with the student, while the student becomes more interested in the discipline they are studying, using a number of methods and means that make learning more efficient and easier. The Internet allows the student to be in touch with the teacher, which has both advantages and disadvantages. An advantage is that learning can take place at any time and in any place, and the student has an integrated learning experience, while lack of face-to-face meetings with the teacher may be a disadvantage from the absence of direct guidance. The objective of this paper is to determine students' perceptions towards blended learning approach (which combines the traditional classroom learning, course-ware and web-based learning) in teaching and learning Economics. It also aims to identify the learning methods which students find attractive, useful and effective. In the study were involved undergraduate students enrolled in The Bucharest University of Economic Studies. A questionnaire was given to evaluate their perception towards blended learning and learning methods. From the findings, conclusion has been drawn regarding the investigated subject and recommendations have been made.