It’s a journey, not a destination…but importantly, see that it’s fit for purpose.

During my own journey I have found that the easiest way to demonstrate an approach to a problem like seeking an answer, is by asking a simple question, one that challenges unexamined belief with the need to understand how things work. If it’s round, there’s an edge. Where is it?

Once it’s understood how things work, there is a chance to interact with them. Not with memorization or rote, but with practical effort. It’s about understanding the mechanism. If you want to take a hot shower, you don’t have to be a plumber to understand the system, you simply must be curious. And willing to test to see what works.

The easy/lazy way out is to teach students to memorize the status quo instead of challenging them to understand how things works. The world around is changing, and even more important to be looking for the edge, moving away from blaming the outcomes and fail to do the work to understand the system. The system is taken for granted in every element of what we do. So, before we can design a course for the online space incorporating a blended approach, which must keep students supported and actively engaged, the correct mindset, skillset and toolset must be established.

Considering the all-round pace of change, the requirements of all parties the blended learning strategy must be a default option (in my book). It integrates, formal and informal learning, face-to-face and online experiences, directed paths and reliance on self-direction, and digital references and group connections, in order to achieve individual and organisational outcomes.

A number of models (Community of Learning framework, ICEBERG model, 7’C’s of Learning Design framework, the 5 Stage model etc.) and supporting theory are on offer and have been explored, each having a distinct edge which must be tested for fit for purpose. These can be delivered in several creative ways which should be in keeping with the goals and objectives. A persona audit should be followed by planning – between tutor/facilitator and student, centred around discussion, adaptation, interaction and reflection before making any finale decisions.

Don’t tell me Pitbull’s “Fireball” featuring John Ryan won’t keep students supported and actively engaged?!

On a serious note, students must understand the part they must play on this journey, taking responsibility for their own development, manning up to more challenging tasks. It must be more than a qualification. It’s about capturing the essence of self-improvement and hopefully planting the seeds of the conscious practice of crafting a life. Nothing of REAL value comes easy. Just ask Malcom Gladwell why there’s no such thing as an overnight sensation.

https://jpaap.napier.ac.uk/index.php/JPAAP/article/view/318/473

http://www.aupress.ca/books/120177/ebook/99Z_Veletsianos_2010-Emerging_Technologies_in_Distance_Education.pdf