A Systemic Approach To Blend: From Program To Course Design

Blended learning has been highly adapted to higher education, either for improving educational access (Picciano, 2006); enhancing teaching and learning; or increasing localness (Mayadas, & Picciano, 2007). To successful blend the face-to-face and online format, the integration of blended learning requires systematically planning and design, most importantly, the approach should be sustainable and cost-effective (Laster, 2010). This is very critical especially for small colleges with limited resources and yet would like to enjoy the benefit of blended learning. Several challenges surface, such as program planning, instructional design, course quality, instructor management, and the innovative use of available resources. Based on available college resources and culture, and research on current practices in online higher education, three essential areas were identified and required for the college to address when integrating blended learning: (1) the program planning, (2) course design, and (3) the faculty development and student support. These three areas are not separate from each other but intertwined to affect the success of the program. In the presentation session, the audiences will be provided with a case and involved in discussions on how this systemic approach was employed to redesign the program and ensure the right blend and to meet high quality expectations. Implications for Practice and lessons learned will also be addressed in the end of the session.