Using a Blended Approach to Teach Research Methods: The Impact of Integrating Web-Based and In-Class Instruction

This study explored using a blended format (both in-class and online components) for teaching undergraduate research methods. A Traditional section met in-person twice weekly for 75 minutes (50 minute lecture with 25 minute group work). A Blended section had the same format for the first 4 weeks, but then switched to a single, 75-minute lecture per week with all group activity shifted to Web-based discussions and online homework sets. Comparisons of exam scores indicated no difference on the midterm but Blended students significantly outperformed those in the Traditional section on the final exam. Students in the Blended section also actively participated in online discussions and maintained close contact with the instructor. These results suggest the integration of online components may help improve student performance.