Blended learning

2018 ◽  
Vol 39 (3/4) ◽  
pp. 207-215 ◽  
Author(s):  
Bruce Keisling
Keyword(s):  
Blended Learning ◽  
Organizational Structures ◽  
Library Services ◽  
Organizational Restructuring ◽  
Organizational Resources ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Organizational Learning Culture ◽  
Learning Programs ◽  
Online Distance

Purpose Because many colleges and universities have growing numbers of students in online and blended programs, libraries should adapt their services and adjust their organizational structures to support them. Students have adopted blended learning programs whether or not the programs are officially designed as blended programs. Libraries need to change their service orientation in response and learn to scale services using available technologies. Scaling services and personnel resources also requires developing a scalable organizational learning culture. The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach Using a change in support for online/distance students and organizational restructuring in Ekstrom Library at the University of Louisville as a case study, this paper examines the review process, organizational restructuring, and focus on scaling services that resulted in a new service model. Findings This study found that scaling services as applied to IT and business organizations is also valuable as an approach in enhancing library services to online students. Changing user needs must be correlated with available organizational resources and technological solutions to deliver appropriate services. Modifying and building services with a goal of scaling them to appropriate levels will enhance library outcomes. Research limitations/implications Other case studies concerned with responding to changing student expectations and scaling services and organizational resources would be useful to add to these findings. Originality/value The perspectives and approach described in this case study will be instructive for adapting library services to changing user environments.

Blended workplace learning: the value of human interaction

2019 ◽  
Vol 61 (1) ◽  
pp. 2-16 ◽  
Author(s):  
Suniti Hewett ◽  
Karen Becker ◽  
Adelle Bish
Keyword(s):  
Blended Learning ◽  
Workplace Learning ◽  
Single Case ◽  
Human Interaction ◽  
Emotional Engagement ◽  
Single Case Study ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Case Study Design ◽  
Learning Programs

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to study the use of blended learning in the workplace and questions whether interpersonal interaction facilitates learner engagement (specifically behavioral, cognitive and/or emotional engagement), and if so, the means by which this occurs. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative approach was taken to this exploratory study, a single-case study design was utilized, and data collection methods involved interviews with facilitators and past participants of a blended workplace learning (BWL) program. Findings Human interaction in the BWL program included learner–facilitator, learner–learner and learner–colleague interaction. Where human interaction was present, it was reported to be linked with more active behavioral engagement, higher cognitive engagement and stronger and more positive emotional engagement than where human interaction was absent. Research limitations/implications The single-case study design does not allow for generalizability of findings. Reliance on self-reported data through interviews without cross-validation from other forms of measurement is a further limitation of the study. Practical implications Effective blended learning programs for workplaces are those that provide opportunities for learners to engage through human interaction with facilitators, other learners and colleagues. The findings advance current knowledge of BWL, and have implications for human resource development professionals, and designers and facilitators of blended learning programs for workplaces. Originality/value The study contributes to existing literature on blended learning in the workplace and emphasizes the importance of ensuring that human interaction is still an element of blended learning to maximize the benefits to learners and organizations.

Leaning into sustainability at University of Alberta Libraries

2016 ◽  
Vol 37 (3) ◽  
pp. 136-148 ◽  
Author(s):  
Gerald Beasley ◽  
Trish Rosseel
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Academic Library ◽  
Building Design ◽  
Library Services ◽  
Staff Time ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Lean Principles ◽  
University Of Alberta ◽  
Staffing Model

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to present a case study that considers the links between cost avoidance, lean design, and sustainability in relation to two different library projects at University of Alberta Libraries (UAL) – the design of the Research and Collections Resource Facility and the development of new fee-based library services at UAL’s John W. Scott Health Sciences Library. Design/methodology/approach – This case study describes the analysis of each project’s workflows in relation to lean design in order to enhance processes and service delivery. Findings – Findings to date in both of these ongoing projects suggest that consideration of the lean philosophy has already led to process and service improvements. With regard to the new building design project, revised task design is already resulting in significant savings in staff time, and work space. And the staffing model for fee-based specialized services has already been redesigned, an alignment with lean principles. Research limitations/implications – While this paper does discuss and define lean design, it does not provide a comprehensive summary of research in this area. Originality/value – This paper highlights the value of lean design as a framework for designing, developing, and reviewing academic library buildings, services, processes, and workflows to ensure they are sustainable.

Blended learning adoption: a case study of one of the oldest universities in Europe

2019 ◽  
Vol 33 (5) ◽  
pp. 990-998 ◽  
Author(s):  
Pietro Previtali ◽  
Danila Scarozza
Keyword(s):  
Blended Learning ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Single Case ◽  
Implementation Process ◽  
Faculty Satisfaction ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Clinical Interviews ◽  
Main Factors

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to study the determinants of blended learning adoption in universities by focusing on faculty’s satisfaction. Design/methodology/approach The research methodology is based on a case study of one of the most ancient University in Europe. The authors administered a questionnaire to the professors that used blended technologies, and the authors conducted clinical interviews with some of the key people involved in the implementation process. Findings The paper allows to identify the main factors that impact on faculty’s satisfaction. Student-related issues seem to be the most important factors influencing faculty satisfaction, while instructor-related issues and especially institution-related issues definitely seem to be less important. Research limitations/implications The study is focused just on a single case study. Further researches could explore a wider application of this research approach to several universities and different countries. Originality/value This study is one of the first that analyzed blended learning adoption in historic universities.

Scholars and learners: a case study of new library spaces at Indiana University

2016 ◽  
Vol 117 (1/2) ◽  
pp. 35-48 ◽  
Author(s):  
Diane Dallis
Keyword(s):  
Undergraduate Students ◽  
Academic Libraries ◽  
Service Planning ◽  
Bring Your Own Device ◽  
Library Services ◽  
Indiana University ◽  
Planning Stage ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose – This case study aims to describe the renovations and intended functions for rooms; explain the different design approaches implemented for the different end-user populations; provide an overview of traditional, new and non-library services for which spaces were designed; briefly explain training and planning; and describe the spaces and services that function well and those that do not. Indiana University Libraries completed two significant renovations in late 2014. They renovated the Learning Commons, which is a 27,000 square feet (SQF) facility designed to meet the needs of undergraduate students, and they created the Scholars’ Commons, which is a 15,000 SQF facility supporting graduate student and faculty research. Design/methodology/approach – Both spaces were thoughtfully designed to support new and traditional library services, as well as services supported by non-library units. Staff training and service planning took place during the construction process, with the goal of having outstanding services operating on opening day. Findings – The goal of creating flexible space was achieved, but it presents organizational and staffing challenges. Libraries seeking to create multifunctional environments must consider the practical implications of daily operation and use of such spaces. Research limitations/implications – This case study describes two library environments that are in their first year of operation and the assessment of the use and impact is underway. The stage of the work limits the research to be reported upon. Practical implications – The spaces described provide very practical information for other academic libraries that seek to renovate spaces and provide innovative services. Originality/value – Academic libraries that are in the planning stage of a learning space should take note of the variety of spaces, strategies for working with cavernous spaces, use of natural light and “bring-your-own-device” interior designs. In addition, the service hub model implemented in the Scholars’ Commons is a unique approach for digital scholarship centers.

Bridging the gap

2017 ◽  
Vol 45 (3) ◽  
pp. 498-510 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kelly Rhodes McBride ◽  
Margaret N. Gregor ◽  
Kelly C. McCallister
Keyword(s):  
Literature Review ◽  
Transfer Students ◽  
Information Literacy ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Library Services ◽  
Master's Level ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Level Institution ◽  
Four Year Institutions

Purpose The aim of this paper is to profile the evolution of library services and information literacy instruction provided for transfer students in collaboration with other campus units at a Master’s level institution and for librarians wishing to develop services for this population. Design/methodology/approach This paper is a case study enhanced by a literature review, outlining the development of services, resources and instruction for transfer students at one institution. Findings This paper provides information about the need for library services designed specifically for transfer students at four-year institutions and the importance of cross campus collaborations to develop and offer these resources. Originality/value The literature on the provision of library services to transfer students is minimal. This case study details the development of cross campus collaborations that resulted in enhanced library services for this population.

scholarly journals E-university delivery model: handling the evaluation process

2019 ◽  
Vol 25 (7) ◽  
pp. 1633-1646 ◽  
Author(s):  
Rasha Ismail ◽  
Fadi Safieddine ◽  
Ashraf Jaradat
Keyword(s):  
Business Models ◽  
Evaluation Process ◽  
Evaluation Tools ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Online Evaluation ◽  
Brick And Mortar ◽  
Online Distance Learning ◽  
Online Distance ◽  
The Impact

Purpose The setting up of e-university has been slow-going. Much of e-university slow progress has been attributed to poor business models, branding, disruptive technologies, lack of organisational structure that accommodates such challenges, and failure to integrate a blended approach. One of the stumbling blocks, among many, is the handling of evaluation process. E-university models do not provide much automation compared to the original brick-and-mortar classroom model of delivery. The underlining technologies may not have been supportive; however, the conditions are changing, and more evaluation tools are becoming available for academics. The paper aims to discuss these issues. Design/methodology/approach This paper identifies the extent of current online evaluation processes. In this process, the team reviews the case study of a UK E-University using Adobe Connect learning model that mirrors much of the physical processes as well as online exams and evaluation tools. Using the Riva model, the paper compares the physical with the online evaluation processes for e-universities to identify differences in these processes to evaluate the benefits of e-learning. As a result, the models can help us to identify the processes where improvements can take place for automating the process and evaluate the impact of this change. Findings The paper concludes that this process can be significantly shortened and provide a fairer outcome but there remain some challenges for e-university processes to overcome. Originality/value This paper examines the vital quality assurance processes in academia as more universities move towards process automation, blended or e-university business models. Using the case study of Arden University online distance learning, the paper demonstrates, through modelling and analysis that the process of online automation of the evaluation process is achieved with significant efficiency.

scholarly journals Blended learning: how to flip the classroom at HEIs in Bangladesh?

2019 ◽  
Vol 13 (2) ◽  
pp. 228-242 ◽  
Author(s):  
Faieza Chowdhury
Keyword(s):  
Blended Learning ◽  
Flipped Classroom ◽  
Secondary Data ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Primary Data ◽  
Successful Implementation ◽  
Learning Program ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Learning Programs

Purpose E-learning is a very popular concept in the education sector today, and one of the best ways to implement this is through blended learning. However, the implementation of blended learning program at Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) is quite new in Bangladesh. The purpose of this paper is to explore the concept of blended learning, how to construct a blended learning program, the benefits of blended learning and some prerequisites to implement blended learning program successfully at HEIs in Bangladesh. Design/methodology/approach Nature of the study is explanatory, descriptive as well as evaluative. Primary data were collected through face-to-face interviews using structured questionnaire having both open- and close-ended questions including personal observations. Secondary data comprise relevant documents available from government agencies, archives, and library and research organizations. Findings By utilizing the blended learning tools, HEIs in Bangladesh can achieve radical improvements in education quality as well as in the accessibility and cost-effectiveness of learning programs. Moreover, any innovative educational reform will be successful only when it is fully accepted and adopted by all the key stakeholders: students, parents, teachers, academic administrators, researchers and policy makers. Practical implications Several practical solutions have been presented in this paper: how to create a blended learning program, how to overcome the obstacles for successful implementation of blended learning and how to create a flipped classroom with the aid of technology. Social implications A country’s soul and economic well-being depends to a large extent on the quality of their citizen’s education. Implementing innovative teaching programs within the education system will enhance the quality of education at HEIs in Bangladesh, creating more efficient labor force hence benefiting the overall society. Originality/value Originality in terms of exposing the hurdles that needs to be addressed for successful implementation of blended learning programs at HEIs in Bangladesh and providing an easy guideline to educators on how to create flipped classrooms.

Affordable education with a little help from the library

2020 ◽  
Vol 48 (3) ◽  
pp. 457-471
Author(s):  
Diane Sotak ◽  
Jane G. Scott ◽  
Tillia R. Griffin
Keyword(s):  
Low Income ◽  
Cost Effective ◽  
Private University ◽  
Pilot Project ◽  
Library Services ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Course Materials ◽  
Low Income College Students ◽  
The Impact

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to describe the design, creation and outcome of a pilot project to provide additional course reserve materials to students. The goals of the project include off-setting the rising costs of higher education and providing equitable access to materials. Design/methodology/approach This case study describes the process of library staff co-creating a workflow to efficiently identify, order and process print and electronic books for 100 and 200 level courses at a small, private university. The project was influenced by an exploration of library services in the context of library ethics. The authors evaluate the impact of the project and determine continued need after a two-year pilot. Findings This paper demonstrates the usefulness of the course reserves service in providing accessible and cost-effective resources. Increased usage of course reserve materials by students, along with a reduction in money spent over time by the library to support the service, has resulted in a program that is deemed viable to continue and potentially expand. Social implications This paper seeks to address the added challenges often placed on low-income college students in accessing, paying for and using assigned course materials. Libraries can use course reserves to enhance student success by providing them with an alternate to purchasing course materials. Originality/value The project addresses constraints of cost, staff time and cross-departmental workflows in managing a course reserves program at a small university and provides a template for other libraries to use.

Integrating Web 2.0 into an academic library in Tanzania

2014 ◽  
Vol 32 (2) ◽  
pp. 183-202 ◽  
Author(s):  
Edda Tandi Lwoga
Keyword(s):  
Web 2.0 ◽  
Academic Libraries ◽  
Academic Library ◽  
User Preferences ◽  
Library Services ◽  
Web 2.0 Technologies ◽  
Undergraduate Medical Students ◽  
Content Type

Purpose – This paper aims to demonstrate work undertaken by Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences (MUHAS) Library in an effort to integrate Web 2.0 technologies in its functions to enhance the quality of its services in Tanzania. Design/methodology/approach – The study conducted an exploratory questionnaire survey to assess user requirements among undergraduate medical students at MUHAS, developed Library 2.0 services, conducted training and created awareness. Findings – The paper shows that Web 2.0 technologies can be implemented effectively according to university goals, user's needs, deployment of user friendly tools, and capacity building among librarians and users. Students positively supported the adoption of Library 2.0 services at MUHAS. Library 2.0 services improved the quality of MUHAS library services, despite various challenges related to infrastructure, awareness, literacy, inadequate staff, security and ownership of Web 2.0 services. Research limitations/implications – The study findings may not be widely replicated because this article is based on a case study of the integration of Web 2.0 technologies into the library functions of MUHAS. This study did not examine the use of Library 2.0 applications among library users (such as faculty and students) which could illuminate further the case study. Practical implications – Most academic libraries in Africa have not yet adopted Web 2.0 technologies to improve their services. The user preferences, technology adoption, and challenges faced from the present study can help other libraries to plan and integrate their Library 2.0 technologies in their services. Originality/value – MUHAS Library offers a practical example of how Web 2.0 services can be adopted to enhance the quality of academic library services in an African context. This paper is of significance to academic libraries that are still considering their options with regard to the application of Web 2.0 technologies.

Embracing the future while storing the past: the Joint Library Facility story

2016 ◽  
Vol 65 (6/7) ◽  
pp. 420-428 ◽  
Author(s):  
Wyoma vanDuinkerken ◽  
Joanne Romano
Keyword(s):  
Design Methodology ◽  
Electronic Materials ◽  
Medical Science ◽  
Library Services ◽  
Storage Facility ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Past ◽  
The Future ◽  
Print Materials

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to focus on the Joint Library Facility services and how Medical Science Libraries have embraced the Resource in Common model to save service copies for their patron’s use while allowing libraries to reclaim critically needed space and develop library services that better meet the needs of their patrons. Design/methodology/approach The paper begins with a description of the Joint Library Facility and its targeted users. It will discuss how this unique library storage facility shares ownership of its material with other libraries to reduce duplication of low-use print items on library shelves. Findings Although electronic materials are more popular with library patrons, there is still scholarly value in keeping low-use print materials as service copies. Originality/value This paper is a case study of a unique library storage facility that shares ownership of its material with other libraries. Its findings will help other libraries plan and implement their own shared print repository.

Sign in / Sign up

Export Citation Format

Share Document