The Blended-Appended: Online Learning Pedagogy as an Afterthought - Instructor Challenges and Contradictions
Abstract: What is the role of the instructor in the design of online and blended courses? This question may at first glance seem rather naïve, but the ‘absence of presence’ of the subject matter expert in the development of blended and online course environments is increasingly becoming a concern, particularly in terms of the afterthought that is given to ensuring courses are embedded with effective blended learning pedagogies. How is the role of teacher conceptualized using a blended approach in online teaching? What type of involvement needs to occur to ensure that the role of the teacher as content and pedagogical expert in the selection process of digital media and classroom resources is taken into consideration to ensure appropriate content delivery and student engagement? How we conceptualize this role has far-reaching implications that effect the roles and responsibilities of teachers as much as their professional development. With the rapid mode of acceleration of the digital in our everyday routines, it seems rather natural to assume that more online platforms will be promoted as the answer to 21st century learning needs. Within this brief paper, we discuss the role of the teacher in blended and online learning and provide an example to illustrate challenges and contradictions that drive the delivery processes for blended and online courses in academic environments.
Presider: Annabell Bils, FernUniversität in Hagen