Blended learning: a synthesis of change

Read this page in Welsh / Darllenwch y dudalen hon yn Gymraeg.

Universities are embarking on a new academic year unlike any other they will have faced before. Mitigating risks, providing sustained high-quality provision, as well as a positive student experience, and all whilst safeguarding continuity of service through uncertain times are the biggest challenges.

Effective use of digital technology is fundamental in making sure learning, student engagement and safe and effective practice endures.

Jisc’s managing director of higher education, Jon Baldwin, reflects:

“2020 has brought many challenges, and the higher education sector has fared the storm, coming together to collaborate, co-create, and rethink approaches to teaching and learning.”

In August 2020 Higher Education Funding Council for Wales (HEFCW) and Universities Wales approached Jisc to produce a synthesis of experiences and practices, adopted by universities across Wales, to be shared, celebrated, and learned from. Highlighting any areas that could be further enhanced, ideally on a sector-wide basis has also been a focus.

Based on conversations with HE staff predominantly in Wales, this document shares some of the sector’s key considerations, experiences and practices required to successfully develop and embed blended learning programmes.

Alyson Nicholson, head of Jisc Wales, says:

“I welcome this study, and I’m looking forward to continuing to work with universities on their journey to further enhance blended learning, embrace digital skills and technologies, and equip students with the skills that will support their success and prosperity.”

This study is complementary to the Jisc-led learning and teaching reimagined project that, with the support of its advisory board, aims to provide university leaders with inspiration on what the future might hold, guidance on how to get there and practical tools that can be used to develop their plans.