MOOCs and blended learning models. A practical approach

Abstract

Interest is growing in analyzing how virtual environments affect the learning process. In particular, researchers focus on analyzing blended learning designs. These environments combine MOOC with face-to-face teaching. This article analyzes a blended learning experience in a Spanish higher education institution. Its aim is to present a case study and to discuss the strategic approach to integrate a MOOC in face-to-face undergraduate studies. In the analyzed case, on-campus students are taught using a combination of face-to-face classroom with online learning. The objective is to improve their academic performance and to reduce the drop-out rate among first-year students. The evaluation strategy of this experience focuses on conducting surveys and focus groups to interpret the results and the opinion of the different stakeholders, that is, the university, the students and the academic staff. The analysis shows that blended learning models improve the quality of students’ education, strengthen students’ academic performance, and encourage academic staff to constantly innovate in their didactic process.