Learning effectiveness of a flexible learning study programme in a blended learning design: why are some courses more effective than others?

• Autores: Claude Müller, Thoralf Mildenberger, Daniel Steingruber
• Localización: International Journal of Educational Technology in Higher Education, ISSN 2365-9440, Nº. 20, 2023
• Idioma: inglés
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• Resumen

  • Flexible learning addresses students’ needs for more fexibility and autonomy in shaping their learning process, and is often realised through online technologies in a blended learning design. While higher education institutions are increasingly considering replacing classroom time and ofering more blended learning, current research is limited regarding its efectiveness and modifying design factors. This study analysed a fexible study programme with 133 courses in a blended learning design in diferent disciplines over more than 4 years with a mixed-methods approach. In the analysed fexible study programme, classroom instruction time was reduced by 51% and replaced with an online learning environment in a blended learning format (N students=278). Student achievement was compared to the conventional study format (N students=1068). The estimated summary efect size for the 133 blended learning courses analysed was close to, but not signifcantly diferent from, zero (d=− 0.0562, p=0.3684). Although overall efectiveness was equivalent to the conventional study format, considerable variance in the efect sizes between the courses was observed.

    Based on the relative efect sizes of the courses and data from detailed analyses and surveys, heterogeneity can be explained by diferences in the implementation quality of the educational design factors. Our results indicate that when implementing fexible study programmes in a blended learning design, particular attention should be paid to the following educational design principles: adequate course structure and guidance for students, activating learning tasks, stimulating interaction and social presence of teachers, and timely feedback on learning process and outcomes