Implementing a "blended learning approach" in a social work course: The perceptions of first-year students at a South African University

Abstract

Enhancing the value of the teaching and learning process by merging e-leaming strategies with traditional face-to-face teaching strategies requires thoughtful application. This article focuses on a research study which implemented a qualitative research approach to explore the perceptions of first-year Social Work students before and after completing a Social Work course used using a blend of teaching and learning methods, including face-to-face learning experiences and e-leaming strategies. Findings indicated that although most first-year students regarded the blended approach as an effective practice to enhance the learning process, there was much scope for development and improvement in course design and implementation.