ABSTRACT
While some participants thrive in the blended environment, departments must invest in preparing and supporting instructors and students so that they are equipped to handle the challenges of the blend. It can be daunting for instructors who are not prepared to help students make the most of limited face-to-face time as well as guide them in what to do during their online time. One challenge is to help instructors have more of a presence in the online component of the course—without overwhelming them with the workload. Many studied programs are not providing adequate support to students and instructors. Instructors who received training reported learning primarily technological items. Although most were positive about this training, few mentioned specific pedagogical issues that also must be addressed when learning to teach in the blended format. Some instructors are still figuring out how to make the best use of class time and manage the blend, suggesting that more support is needed. Discrepancies between instructor and student reports of training suggest that learners might not receive adequate support. One challenge for instructors, solvable through improved communication with all participants, is guiding students’ use of resources so that everyone can be more successful in the blend.
