On designing Blended Learning environments for Resource-Challenged Communities

Abstract

The growth of Information and Communication Technologies adoption in emerging economies and more broadly Resource-Challenged Communities (RCC) motivates the exploration of Blended Learning (BL); a learning mode that mixes face-to-face and technology-mediated instruction. BL has the potential of broadening accessibility to quality learning anytime and anywhere. This article contributes a theoretical perspective about designing BL environments in RCC. It synthesizes findings from BL literature and lessons distilled from technology projects in RCC to envision a pathway forward that consists of three design heuristics to help designers address the contextual challenges in RCC. The heuristics are: localizing the design problem, embracing the complex and nuanced use of technology, and balancing autonomy and scaffolding to support students.