Course Title: Flexible and Blended Learning

Course Description

This course provides learners with the knowledge, skills, and competencies required to effectively design, implement, and manage flexible and blended learning environments. It combines theoretical understanding with practical applications, emphasizing the integration of digital technologies and instructional strategies to support diverse learning needs. The course is structured to prepare learners to adapt traditional and online pedagogical approaches to maximize engagement, accessibility, and learning outcomes.

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1. Rationale

The rapid growth of technology and the increasing demand for lifelong learning require educators and training institutions to adopt flexible and blended learning models. These approaches provide learners with the opportunity to access educational content anytime, anywhere, and in formats that suit their learning styles. This course equips learners with the knowledge and skills to respond to these changes, ensuring effective teaching and learning in both face-to-face and online environments.

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2. Course Objectives

By the end of this course, learners should be able to:

1. Understand the concepts of flexible and blended learning, including historical evolution, models, and principles.

2. Design and implement learning experiences that integrate online and face-to-face instruction effectively.

3. Utilize digital tools and learning management systems (LMS) to enhance learner engagement and assessment.

4. Assess and evaluate learning outcomes in flexible and blended environments.

5. Develop strategies for learner support and motivation in online and blended settings.

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3. Learning Outcomes

Upon completion, learners will be able to:

• Define flexible and blended learning and explain their key features.

• Compare and contrast various models of blended learning (e.g., flipped classroom, rotation model, enriched virtual model).

• Integrate instructional technologies and digital resources in lesson design.

• Facilitate learner-centered approaches that accommodate diverse learning needs and schedules.

• Design formative and summative assessments suitable for blended learning environments.

• Evaluate the effectiveness of blended learning strategies using feedback, analytics, and performance data.

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4. Course Content

Module 1: Introduction to Flexible and Blended Learning

• Definitions and concepts

• Evolution and history of blended learning

• Advantages and challenges

• Key principles and strategies

Module 2: Models and Approaches

• Rotation model (station rotation, lab rotation, flipped classroom)

• Flex model

• Enriched virtual model

• Self-blend model

• Fully online model

Module 3: Instructional Design for Blended Learning

• Lesson planning and content development

• Integration of face-to-face and online components

• Learning objectives and outcomes alignment

• Activity design (interactive, collaborative, and reflective)

Module 4: Digital Tools and Technologies

• Learning Management Systems (Moodle, Canvas, Google Classroom)

• Online communication tools (Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet)

• Collaboration tools (Padlet, Jamboard, Trello)

• Multimedia and content creation (videos, podcasts, simulations)

Module 5: Learner Engagement and Support

• Strategies for motivating learners

• Inclusive practices for diverse learners

• Peer-to-peer and instructor-led support

• Managing online and blended classroom dynamics

Module 6: Assessment in Blended Learning

• Formative assessment strategies (quizzes, polls, reflections)

• Summative assessments (projects, portfolios, assignments)

• Use of analytics and learning data for evaluation

• Feedback mechanisms and improvement plans

Module 7: Evaluation and Quality Assurance

• Measuring effectiveness of blended learning programs

• Monitoring learner progress and engagement

• Best practices for continuous improvement

• Ethical considerations and digital citizenship

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5. Teaching and Learning Methods

• Lectures and presentations (face-to-face and online)

• Hands-on practice with digital tools

• Case studies and scenario analysis

• Group discussions and collaborative projects

• Simulation and role-play activities

• Peer and instructor feedback

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6. Assessment Methods

• Practical assignments and projects

• Online quizzes and tests

• Case study analysis and reports

• Portfolio of learning activities

• Peer and self-assessment activities

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7. Target Learners

• Educators and trainers in schools, colleges, and vocational institutions

• Instructional designers

• E-learning coordinators and administrators

• Lifelong learners seeking skills in digital pedagogy

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8. Expected Competencies After Completion

Learners completing this course will be able to:

1. Design, deliver, and manage flexible and blended learning programs effectively.

2. Use digital tools and platforms to enhance learning outcomes.

3. Apply learner-centered strategies to maximize engagement and performance.

4. Evaluate blended learning initiatives and recommend improvements.

5. Support diverse learners in achieving competency-based outcomes.

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9. Duration

• Suggested duration: 8–12 weeks (can be adjusted for intensive or short courses)

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10. References (APA 7th Edition)

Garrison, D. R., & Vaughan, N. D. (2013). Blended learning in higher education: Framework, principles, and guidelines (2nd ed.). Jossey-Bass.

Bonk, C. J., & Graham, C. R. (2012). The handbook of blended learning: Global perspectives, local designs (2nd ed.). Pfeiffer.

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If you want, I can also prepare a ready-to-print Word document for this Flexible and Blended Learning course, complete with headings, tables, and formatting suitable for TVET submission.

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