%0 Journal Article
%T Finding the Recipe for the Best Blend: The Evolution and Assessment of a Blended Master¡¯s Degree Program
%A Camille Ramsey
%A Andrew Hawkins
%A Lynn Hausner
%A Robert Wiegand
%J Journal of the Research Center for Educational Technology
%D 2009
%I Kent State University
%X A comprehensive analysis was conducted of West Virginia University's Physical Education Teacher Education Master of Science program. This program is a blended learning hybrid model, which combines courses taught on site with courses taught through web-based distance education. The purpose of the study was to describe and assess the program. A description of the program is provided based on interviews conducted with the faculty. Assessment of the program was conducted primarily through an anonymous online survey of members of five graduating classes. Additionally, an analysis of standards-based exit portfolios completed by students in one recently graduating class and an analysis from an independent, external evaluator were utilized in the assessment. Results indicated that the graduates were meeting the relevant standards and associated outcomes, and that the blended program was largely responsible for their performance. In addition, two standards dealing with systematic inquiry were deemed the weakest of the program¡¯s effects, and program modifications were undertaken to respond to those weaknesses. Graduates were highly positive about both face-to-face and online portions of the program and clearly resonated with the blended approach. Discussion includes observations about curriculum changes made since the program¡¯s inception, the enhancement of the learning community through the blended approach, and technological issues that need to be addressed in order to maximize the effectiveness of a blended program.
%K Blended Learning
%K Teacher Education
%K Physical Education
%U http://www.rcetj.org/index.php/rcetj/article/view/10/13