Blended Learning Program Research Articles

Improving ESP University Students’ Writing Skills and Academic Flow: A Six Thinking Hats Blended Learning Program Based Moodle

This study explored the impact of Six Thinking Hats blended learning program-based Moodle on ESP university students' writing skills and academic flow. Four instruments -designed by the researcher- that included: (a writing skills checklist, a writing skills test, a writing scoring rubric, and an academic flow scale) were used for collecting data. The research adopted the quasi-experimental design using two groups: an experimental group (n = 33), and a control one (n = 33). The researcher taught both groups: the experimental group was taught using Six Thinking Hats blended learning program-based Moodle. In contrast, the control group was taught through the regular teaching method. Research results revealed statistically significant differences between the mean scores of the experimental and the control group students in the writing skills tests and the academic flow scale in favor of the experimental group. Besides, the effect size of the six thinking hats blended learning program-based Moodle was high.

Manajemen Blended Learning Pasca Pandemi Covid-19: Studi Kasus Sekolah di Indonesia

This study aims to find out the main factors that contribute to blended learning management in Indonesia. The research is focused on identifying the management process which includes, planning, organizing, implementing, and evaluating the blended learning management program at SMAN 2 Jember, SMKN 1 Wanayasa Banjarnegara and SMP 1 Prambanan Yogyakarta. This research is qualitative descriptive research with a naturalistic approach. The results show that the four functions of the management process have a very large influence on the results of the blended learning management program. First, the planning of the blended learning program involves all school stakeholders, as well as through the creation of a regular schedule. Second, in terms of organizing blended learning programs, the school goes through the curriculum work process so that teachers fill out a daily journal, to monitor activities. Third, the implementation of the blended learning program based on the learning process in the classroom by providing materials and explanations, as well as information transformation through room meeting to do practice questions at home. Fourth, learning evaluation is carried out through google classroom for attitude knowledge, and practicum for skill aspects, as well as private universities and UAS. Blended learning management policies involving all school stakeholders, filling out daily journals, learning in the classroom and delivering material through room meetings can optimize the learning process in the post-covid-19 pandemic period.

Determinants of nursing students’ satisfaction with blended learning

BackgroundBlended learning, a pedagogical approach combining traditional classroom instruction with online components, has gained prominence in nursing education. While offering numerous benefits, student satisfaction with blended learning remains a critical concern. This study contributes to the existing literature by providing a comprehensive evaluation of the determinants influencing nursing students’ satisfaction with this innovative educational modality. By examining a wide range of factors, including sociodemographic characteristics, academic factors, and environmental influences, this research offers valuable insights for educators to optimize blended learning experiences in nursing education.MethodsA descriptive cross-sectional research design was conducted. This study investigates the factors influencing nursing students’ satisfaction with blended learning at Alexandria University, Egypt, where blended learning programs have been integrated into the curriculum primarily through the Microsoft Teams platform. A convenient sample of 1266 nursing students from both bachelor and technical educational institutions participated in the study from September 2023 to the end of December 2023. Data were collected using an online survey containing two measurement tools: the Blended Learning Satisfaction Scale and the Environmental Facilitators and Barriers to Student Persistence in Online Courses scale. Statistical analyses, including descriptive statistics and backward multiple linear regression, were conducted to identify factors that are associated with the satisfaction of nursing students’ with blended learning.ResultsFindings indicate that factors such as age, gender, income, employment status, access to suitable internet sources, academic year, computer literacy, preferred learning method, and perceptions of environmental facilitators significantly influence satisfaction scores (all p < 0.001). The overall regression model, with an adjusted R² of 0.31, signifies that 31% of the variance in satisfaction scores is explained collectively by the previously mentioned variables (F = 21.21, p < 0.001).ConclusionStudents’ sociodemographic variables, preference for blended learning, and perception of environmental facilitators such as encouragement to enroll in the course significantly influence nursing students’ satisfaction levels with blended learning. However, limitations in the current study such as self-report bias, convenient sampling, and cross-sectional design limit the generalizability and causal inferences of these findings.

DISTANCE LEARNING EXIT ECONOMIC MODEL

At the beginning of 2020, with the onset of the pandemic, the traditional learning environment for learners drastically changed globally. Since then, most students/teachers have started and practiced distance and virtual learning/teaching. Thus, a technological breakthrough in virtual learning has followed. In connection with this, many countries worldwide have commenced allocating additional financing and funds for educational institutions' technological improvement and development. The long-term stay in distance learning has revealed and highlighted new problems students face: their knowledge level has decreased, they lack socialization skills, and they face psychological and physical health problems. Due to this negative impact on students, a need to research and evaluate how much the EU countries allocated to solve the distance learning-caused problems and what programs or models they prepared has emerged and encouraged further studies. The research has found that many countries increased their allocations very minimally, e.g., 0.0.1%, but some increased their available budgets to 32%. Notably, most countries did not separate distance learning exit funding from distance learning preparation funding. Based on the problems the countries saw, only a few states identified withdrawal from distance learning as a problem. Considering this, we set ourselves the goal to evaluate exit models from distance learning and allocated funding amounts. To stabilize the impact of unforeseen events, such as epidemics, pandemics, military conflicts, etc., on learning processes, it is necessary to have sustainable solutions for managing learning processes in such situations. As revealed by the COVID-19 situation, the stability and continuity of the learning process remains very important even in emergencies. Stable and continuous learning can be ensured by practising sustainable distance learning, which must be based on sustainable tools. The results of this research are significant in terms of improving distance learning and providing qualitative and sustainable education. The current situation stimulates hybrid learning, which is increasingly becoming the foundation of sustainability in the education sector. Thus, to reverse the damage caused by distance learning and create a sustainable environment for blended learning, it is necessary to eliminate the negative effects of distance learning. This challenge will lead to the need for new sustainable blended learning programs. The following objectives were planned to achieve the goal: · to evaluate the global practice of exit from distance learning in the context of sustainability; · to determine the scope of funding for pandemic management; · to evaluate the amounts of funding allocated to manage pandemic-caused consequences and the GDP ratio. Research methods: mathematical-statistical analysis, empirical analysis, and analysis of scientific literature.

A blended teaching and learning model for family-medicine registrar training at a South African university.

Effective primary healthcare is essential in developing countries but faces several challenges, including the lack of standardised training across decentralised sites. In response to unsatisfactory registrar examination outcomes in 2013, the Department of Family Medicine at the University of the Witwatersrand in South Africa introduced a blended teaching and learning programme. The aim of the new programme was to level the playing field by providing uniform online resources on a course site on the university's learning management system. The uniform online resources would be integrated into the teaching programme. A team consisting of the registrar-training-programme coordinator, an educationalist and five family-medicine consultants from different districts began reviewing the curriculum, selecting appropriate resources and developing the course site. The blended programme was developed and implemented using a phased, participatory research action approach, including phases of evaluation and redesign. Since the implementation of the blended-learning programme in 2017, registrar outcomes have improved, but this has not been the only success attributed to the programme. The programme also resulted in an enhanced focus on teaching and learning, especially among those involved in its development. We share the lessons gleaned from our experiences, emphasising the need for adequate training and teamwork if we are to use technology appropriately and effectively to address the difficulties associated with decentralised training in developing countries.

Learners Attitude and Academic Success Towards Science

Aim. COVID-19 disrupted education, leading to new learning methods. Other factors like attitude are overlooked but can aid effective learning. This paper explores two major variables: the learners’ learning attitude and academic performance in science. The study analysed students’ learning attitude, academic performance, and relationships in a blended learning setting for science. Method. The study used a mixed-methods design, with both quantitative and qualitative phases. Participants were in a blended learning program. Results. Learning can happen in a blended learning modality, with the learners’ mean grade of 87.03 (Very Satisfactory). Learners have a favourable learning attitude towards science (3.49; moderate attitude). The highest aspect of the learning attitude of learners in the blended learning modality is affective (3.72; high attitude), followed by cognitive (3.62; moderate attitude) and behavioural (3.15; moderate attitude). Furthermore, there was a positive correlation, r(78) =.48, p &lt; 0.01, between the LLATS and SAP of the learners in blended learning. Conclusion. Learning can effectively take place in a blended learning modality. Learners exhibit a positive attitude towards science learning in a blended learning environment, with affective attitudes ranking the highest, followed by cognitive and behavioural attitudes. This can be attributed to the teachers’ efforts in providing ample opportunities for the development of both affective and cognitive aspects of attitude. However, the pandemic has presented limitations in cultivating positive behaviour attitude. Learners persevered through challenges, thanks to dedicated teachers fostering positivity and academic growth.

Development and evaluation of a blended learning training programme for pharmacy technicians’ continuing education

ObjectivesThe role of the pharmacy technician (PT) has expanded in recent years, requiring new competencies, better communications skills and high-level knowledge about drugs. The objective of this study is to...

Transforming healthcare: A pilot study to improve primary healthcare professionals’ self-management support behaviour through blended learning

BackgroundSelf-management of a chronic condition is a complex but increasingly important issue. However, a supportive attitude and behaviour among healthcare professionals is hampered by a lack of awareness, knowledge and motivation. In addition, the role of professionals in supporting self-management seems unclear.MethodsA blended learning program for primary healthcare professionals was developed to strengthen self-management support in primary care. The program was piloted in community health centres and multidisciplinary medical practices in Flanders. Using the Kirkpatrick model, the impact on healthcare professionals’ reaction, learning and behaviour regarding self-management support was evaluated.ResultsA total of 60 healthcare professionals registered for the educational program. Post-learning questionnaires and verbal feedback showed a positive response, with professionals highly appreciating the innovative blended learning approach. In terms of learning, participants showed a good understanding of self-management support, although nuances were observed in the application of acquired knowledge to practice scenarios. Finally, preliminary insights into behavioural change were explored, revealing a positive impact of the intervention on participants’ supportive self-management behaviours in healthcare practice.ConclusionsOur study provides preliminary insights into the outcomes of a blended learning program designed to increase awareness and knowledge of self-management support among professionals. The program needs to be refined for general implementation in primary care.

The socio-demographic profile of family physician graduates of blended-learning courses in India.

India's lean cadre of 250,000 general practitioners and 30,000 government doctors has limited options to update themselves. Since 2006, Christian Medical College (CMC) Vellore has run blended-learning programs in family medicine, namely, postgraduate diploma in family medicine (PGDFM) and master in medicine in family medicine (M.MED FM) training more than 3000 doctors. A graduate follow-up study was undertaken in 2022. The aim of the study was to describe the socio-demographic characteristics of family physicians (FPs) in India who graduated between 2008 and 2018 from the FM blended-learning programs run by the CMC, Vellore. Informed by an empirical-analytic paradigm, this descriptive study used a cross-sectional survey design to uncover graduate FPs' profiles, practices and experiences. Using a purposively designed, piloted and validated electronic questionnaire, data were collected between March and July 2022, deidentified and analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS)TM and Epi InfoTM. Among the 438 FP respondents (36%), there was an almost even split in gender (49.3% male, 50.7% female). Moreover, 25.8% were below the age of 40 years, 37.4% were in the 40-49 age group, and 33.8% were 50 years of age or older; 86% lived and worked in urban areas. The PGDFM or M.MED FM was the highest educational qualification of 64.4% of the doctors. Male FPs pursued postgraduate studies at a significantly younger age and earned significantly more than their female counterparts. The blended learning model creates an important pathway for doctors, especially women, to pursue higher education with flexibility. Preferential selection criteria can target rural-based physicians. Strong policy-level advocacy is needed to establish FM as a specialty with equitable pay scales. Socio-demographic profiling can be used as an effective advocacy tool.

Evaluation of the blended public health empowerment program-basic field epidemiology in the Eastern Mediterranean Region.

The COVID-19 pandemic encouraged the shift toward technology-based learning globally, impacting education systems profoundly. In response to this emerging need, the Eastern Mediterranean Public Health Network (EMPHNET) adapted its Public Health Empowerment Program-Basic Field Epidemiology (PHEP-BFE) to a Blended Learning Model. This study evaluates the Blended PHEP-BFE program in Iraq, Egypt, and Lebanon, focusing on participant reactions and learning outcomes. A descriptive evaluation was conducted, aligned with the first two levels of Kirkpatrick's model. Online questionnaires were administered to participants and facilitators through EMPHNET's Learning Management System (LMS). Qualitative and quantitative data were analyzed to assess program effectiveness, satisfaction, and challenges. A total of 138 PHEP-BFE participants (119 (86.2%) males and 19 (13.8%) females) from Iraq (n = 61), Egypt (n = 66), and Lebanon (n = 11) responded to the questionnaire. The majority of the participants (96.4%) reported that they were satisfied with PHEP-BFE. Notably, 77.5% of participants rated the blended learning program as very good or excellent, 18.1% rated it good, and 3.6% found it average, with a minimal 0.7% expressing dissatisfaction. The majority of participants agreed that the blended PHEP-BFE enhanced their capacity to conduct, review and monitor surveillance data (95.7%), perform descriptive data analysis (94.2%), effectively communicate information with agency staff and the local community (95.7%), write summaries of surveillance findings or outbreak investigations (95.7%), use MS Excel to enter, analyze, and display public health surveillance data (91.3%), prepare and administer an oral presentation for fieldwork (94.9%), and increase their knowledge of fundamental field epidemiology (94.9%). The participants responded positively to the program's content, training duration, learning platform, facilitators and mentors, and fieldwork. The study showcases the success of the blended PHEP-BFE in diverse contexts, emphasizing positive participant reactions and improved competencies. The evaluation underscores the program's success in advancing public health training in the EMR. Blended learning models prove promising for future FETP initiatives, contributing valuable insights to public health workforce development. Positive outcomes and identified challenges, provide a roadmap for continuous improvement.

Factors influencing continuance intention in blended learning among business school students in China: based on grounded theory and FsQCA

ABSTRACT This research study aims to explore the factors that influence continuance intention in Blended learning (BL) among business school students in China. By employing a grounded theory approach and utilizing the Fuzzy Set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (FsQCA) method, the research investigates the complex interplay of various variables that contribute to business school students’ intention to continue participating in BL programs. The study includes a comprehensive analysis of factors such as self-efficacy, perceived usefulness, task-technology fit, social influence, and satisfaction. The findings provide valuable insights into the factors that drive business school students’ continuance intention in BL, specifically within the business school context in China. Moreover, the study highlights the non-linear relationships and various configurations of these factors that result in high levels of continuance intention. The results contribute to the existing knowledge base and inform educational institutions in designing effective strategies to enhance business school students’ engagement and promote the long-term success of BL initiatives.

Effectiveness of Gamified Cooperation and Competition in Blended Learning Environment for EFL Business Writing in TVET

This research investigated the effectiveness of gamified blended learning environments in fostering EFL writing skills among technical and vocational education and training (TVET) trainees in Saudi Arabia. It compared three distinct learning strategies achieved through gamification design in a blended delivery mode: gamified cooperation, gamified competition, and gamified cooperation-competition. Each strategy leveraged a specific category of gamification features that evoke different goal structure: cooperation, competition, or a combination of both. A quasi-experimental design with a pre-test and post-test was employed. Forty-five trainees were purposively selected and randomly assigned to three groups, each receiving instruction using a different gamified blended learning program for teaching business writing. The findings revealed significant improvement in English as a Foreign Language business writing skills for all three groups. However, a one-way ANOVA and post-hoc Tukey HSD test indicated that the gamified cooperation-competition strategy yielded the greatest improvement compared to the gamified cooperation and gamified competition strategies alone. This suggests that a combination of cooperative and competitive elements within a gamified blended learning environment might be the most effective approach for enhancing English as a Foreign Language business writing skills among Technical and Vocational Training and Education learners.

Towards teaching strategies addressing online learning in blended learning courses for adult-learners

Blended learning offers a learner-centred approach that employs both in-class learning and digital technology to facilitate online learning. Such an approach is especially advantageous to adult-learners in higher education as it meets their educational needs. However, adult-learners’ participation in blended learning programmes remains challenging due to a general lack of online interaction, and no clear teaching strategies that address this concern. Literature relating to adult-learners’ educational needs and online interaction was consulted in order to design teaching strategies that foster adult-learners’ online interaction. The aim of this study is to further validate these teaching strategies, hence a multiple case study was carried out using a mixed method approach. As such, eight teachers and sixteen students from four courses across three universities in Belgium and the Netherlands were interviewed. Additionally, a questionnaire testing a pre-defined set of variables was distributed to 84 students. The results lead to a set of validated teaching strategies that help teachers to further develop their professional skills and expertise. The teaching strategies can be grouped into three categories, namely 1) the teacher's online presence, 2) collaborative learning activities and preparatory learning activities, and 3) the distribution of learning content and learning activities across online and in-class learning. An elaborate set of validated teaching strategies is included. This study aids towards teacher professional development and adds evidence-based knowledge to teaching strategies and instructional frameworks for adult-learners in higher education.Teaching/learning strategies, adult-learning, cooperative/collaborative learning, teacher professional development, online learning.

The Effectiveness of Blended Learning to General Engineering Students of Holy Angel University: Combining Traditional Instruction with Online Resources

This study investigates the effectiveness of blended learning for general engineering students at Holy Angel University. Blended learning combines traditional face-to-face classroom instruction with online resources. The research aims to determine if this approach improves academic achievement, fosters a deeper understanding of engineering concepts, and enhances student engagement compared to traditional instruction alone. The study will involve general engineering students exposed to blended learning courses. This curriculum will integrate online resources such as simulations, tutorials, and interactive exercises alongside traditional lectures, discussions, and hands-on activities. Surveys to assess student perceptions of blended learning, including its impact on understanding, engagement, and self-directed learning skills. The findings of this research will contribute to the growing body of knowledge on blended learning in engineering education. The results will be particularly relevant to Holy Angel University, informing decisions about the potential benefits of implementing blended learning programs for general engineering students. By analyzing the effectiveness of blended learning on academic achievement, understanding, and engagement, the study will provide valuable insights for educators seeking to improve the learning experience for future generations of engineers.

Quality Measurement of Blended Learning Model in Higher Education: Scale Development and Validation

Objective: This study aimed to develop and test a scale for measuring the quality of blended learning models in higher education. Methods: This research adopts a sequential mixed-method approach to construct a new measurement scale. The first phase consisted of the inductive approach to identify the items, followed by exploratory factor analysis. The identified dimensions were tested for reliability and validity in the second phase. Results: The Blended Learning Quality Assessment (BLQA) contains 4 dimensions: Technology Integration, Pedagogy and Curriculum, Physical Infrastructure, and Educator Proficiency. The scale is comprised of 26 items assessing the quality of blended learning programs in higher education. The reliability and validity of the scale were established by confirmatory factor analysis (AVE &gt; 0.6, Cronbach’s alpha &gt; 0.85). Conclusions: In the face of changing student expectations of quality, this study introduces a comprehensive measurement scale by which institutions of higher education may effectively assess their performance. Implications: Results contribute to extant literature by proposing a comprehensive scale to measure the quality of an institution’s blended learning model. The scale integrates digital aspects of pedagogy, delivery, and infrastructure and can be used to identify the dimensions contributing most to student satisfaction.

The Impact of CALL Teacher Preparation Program on EFL Teachers' Integration of Technology

This research examines how Computer Assisted Language Learning (CALL) instructors are currently using technology in language instruction, the difficulties they encounter, how Computer Assisted Language Learning Teacher Preparation Program (CALLTPP) affects English Language Teachers (ELTs) professional development and technology integration and the implications of CALLTIT for teacher education programs. During a six-month blended learning program called CALLTPP, five CALL teachers engaged in online sessions and asynchronous communication to improve their comprehension and use of CALL in the classroom. Convenience sampling was used to choose the participants, who then submitted narratives summarizing their experiences. The narratives' thematic analysis showed that CALLTPPs had a favorable impact on ELTs' capacity for incorporating technology and professional development. Participants stated that they felt more competent and confident when incorporating technology, which increased learning outcomes and pupil engagement. On the other hand, difficulties including perceived complexity and a lack of formal CALL education were noted. In addition to highlighting the necessity of continuing support and training for CALL teachers, the study underscores the significance of digital literacy and pedagogical understanding for successful CALL integration.

How has blended learning impacted tourism and hospitality graduates in employability? Feedback from graduates and tourism industry employers

PurposeThe aim of this empirical research is to define blended learning (BL) in the context of tourism education and discuss its effectiveness in learning and, upon completion, the employability of graduates in due cause.Design/methodology/approachThe qualitative research consists of 22 in-depth interviews with experts from the tourism industry and graduates. The sampling method was purposive (judgmental), and open-ended questions were asked in order to encourage the interviewee to be expressive and to share their views and opinions on what the impact of the BL program has been.FindingsThe study found that the most significant obstacles were a lack of funding, a lack of cooperation from the local and various levels of government and a lack of knowledge about sustainable tourism product development among local residents.Originality/valueDuring the COVID-19 pandemic, the majority of the tourism schools and university departments have developed a combination of mixed learning to include online, classroom and sector experience, which can be summarized as BL. This research suggests that BL has provided for a blend of skills and, as a result, employable graduates.

Blended Learning Using Edmodo: Students’ Performance and Attitude in Boxing During COVID-19

COVID-19 has led to quarantines, isolations, and social separations worldwide. Universities use distance education and blended learning especially for practical courses. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of blended learning via Edmodo on students’ performance and attitude when learning some fundamental boxing skills. Thirty-two students from 124 enrolled in a boxing sport course were randomly selected. A quasi-experimental design was used by creating a control group and an experimental group. A flipped classroom strategy was used to teach basic boxing skills to the experimental group via Edmodo. The control group was taught via teacher command style. Results of the post-measurements of overall skill performance score indicated that the experimental group outperformed the control group with a large effect size of ([Formula: see text] = 0.73). The Edmodo students also demonstrated positive attitudes. A blended learning program via Edmodo influences positively on learning boxing skills and motivates them to learn.

ANALYZING THE PERCEPTION OF STUDENTS ABOUT HYBRID LEARNING PROGRAM IN UNIVERSITIES

The study's objective was to determine how students felt about university blended learning programs. This study looked at evidence showing how blended learning affects students' perceptions. The study's population of concern included all social sciences students from 2-universities in Multan district (Bahauddin Zakariya University &amp; Women University). Sample of study comprised 360 students from social sciences faculty, 30 students were selected from each department. Questionnaire was developed for students. The questionnaire contains 25 items for students' perception and a five-point Likert scale was used for scoring. Statistical methods were applied to obtain findings about student reactions like %, mean, frequency and SD was used to apply and examine the perception of students about blended learning program. It was found that majority of participants believe that blended learning helps make students independent, inspired, confident &amp; more effective. Students should participate in training program to improve ability to use technology in blended learning &amp; regular feedback sessions should be encouraged.

Challenges faced by teachers of postgraduate health professions blended learning programs: a qualitative analysis

IntroductionBlended learning, which integrates classroom face-to-face teaching with both asynchronous and synchronous online learning elements, has swiftly gained acceptance in educational environments. However, the implementation of blended learning presents challenges that impact all stakeholders, necessitating thoughtful consideration. Teachers play a central role in shaping the instructional experience among these stakeholders. To fully realize the potential of comprehensive blended learning, it is imperative to identify the challenges faced by these teachers and develop strategies that sensibly address and overcome them.MethodologyA qualitative exploratory study was conducted with twelve teachers involved in the postgraduate blended learning health professions program at Khyber Medical University, Peshawar in 2022. One-on-one semi-structured Interviews were conducted via WhatsApp/ZOOM, transcribed by Otter AI, coded on NVivo & analyzed using Braun/Clarke’s Thematic Analysis.ResultsThree themes of challenges faced by teachers of postgraduate blended learning programs were constructed namely (1) Skills, such as (i) digital, (ii) instructional, and (iii) online class management, and (2) Administrative barriers in terms of (iv) resources (iv) training, and (3) Faculty resistance.ConclusionThis study provides profound insights into the daunting challenges that postgraduate blended learning program teachers encounter in terms of skills, administrative barriers, and faculty resistance. These findings offer a valuable opportunity for program directors to identify the critical requirements of these faculties in their pursuit of effective teaching and learning, ultimately transforming the landscape of blended education. This study emphasizes the need for ongoing faculty development and institutional support to address the identified challenges and improve the quality of postgraduate blended-learning programs.