Research Proposal 1: How do blended learning models affect student engagement and performance in higher education?

Introduction:

Blended learning, a teaching model that combines in-person classroom experiences with online learning components, has gained popularity in higher education due to its flexibility and potential to enhance student learning. The shift to blended learning has been accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, raising important questions about how this model influences student engagement and academic performance. This research aims to evaluate the impact of blended learning on student engagement and performance, offering insights into its effectiveness in improving the overall educational experience.

Research Question:

How do blended learning models affect student engagement and performance in higher education?

Objectives:

• To investigate the relationship between blended learning models and student engagement in higher education.

• To assess how blended learning influences academic performance compared to traditional face-to-face learning models.

• To identify the strengths and weaknesses of blended learning models in fostering student participation and learning outcomes.

• To explore student and faculty perceptions of blended learning and its effectiveness in different disciplines.

Literature Review:

Blended learning has been shown to increase flexibility and accessibility for students, offering a mix of synchronous and asynchronous learning opportunities (Garrison & Kanuka, 2004). Research has also indicated that blended learning models can improve engagement by allowing students to access resources at their own pace while still benefiting from face-to-face interactions (Means et al., 2013). However, the impact on student performance remains mixed, with some studies suggesting that students in blended learning environments perform equally well, while others highlight challenges in terms of self-discipline and motivation (Bernard et al., 2009). This study will build on existing research to provide new insights into how blended learning specifically influences student engagement and academic outcomes in higher education.

Methodology:

This study will adopt a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative and qualitative research methods:

1. Survey: A survey will be conducted among students and instructors in higher education institutions who are participating in blended learning courses. The survey will include questions on engagement, satisfaction, and academic performance.

2. Interviews: In-depth interviews with students and faculty members will be conducted to understand their perceptions of blended learning, focusing on the challenges and benefits they experience.

3. Performance Analysis: The academic performance of students in blended learning courses will be compared to those in traditional face-to-face courses using existing grade data.

Expected Outcomes:

• Insights into how blended learning models affect student engagement, including motivation, participation, and interaction with course materials.

• An understanding of how student performance in blended learning environments compares to traditional learning models.

• Recommendations for best practices in implementing blended learning in higher education to maximize engagement and academic success.

Timeline:

• Month 1-2: Literature review and survey/interview design.

• Month 3-4: Data collection through surveys and interviews.

• Month 5: Data analysis and report writing.

• Month 6: Final report submission.

Budget:

• Survey development and distribution: $1,500

• Interview participant incentives: $1,000

• Data analysis software: $500

• Miscellaneous costs: $500

• Total: $3,500