The Educational Review, USA, 2019, 3(7), 75-86
http://www.hillpublisher.com/journals/er
Next Generation, Higher Education: Online and
blended learning*
Tirtha Goradia
Biosciences Endeavour College of Natural Health, Perth, Australia
How to cite this paper: Goradia T. (2019). Next
Generation, Higher Education: Online and
blended learning*. The Educational Review,
USA, 3(7), 75-86.
http://dx.doi.org/10.26855/er.2019.07.003
*Corresponding author: Tirtha Goradia,
Biosciences Endeavour College of Natural
Health, Perth, Australia.
Email: Tirtha.goradia@endeavour.edu.au
Abstract
With advancement in technology, online education has gained popularity in higher
education. Many universities are also looking to implement blended courses
as a flexible option to learning. With the rise in the next generation learners,
implementation of appropriate pedagogies and technologies that suite these learners is
highly recommended. This review investigates various trends and innovative ideas for
online and blended learning presented in higher education that can be considered as
next generation pedagogies. A systematic review was undertaken to explore the trends
and the data were evaluated in a descriptive manner. Collectively, the included studies
(n=10) revealed innovative ideas for designing courses, implementing curriculum
and pedagogies. Strategies that allow flexibility in curriculum, instruction; promote
research skills; and provide real-world experience are considered as next generation
pedagogies.
Keywords
online learning, blended learning, higher education, next generation, pedagogy
1. Introduction
With advances in information technology, online learning has taken a huge leap in the last decade. More and more universities
in the higher education sector are now offering online courses providing students with flexibility in their learning pathways.
Furthermore, blended learning has been identified as an emerging trend in higher education enhancing interaction and
communication between instructors and learners (Nikolaidou et al., 2010). Through these trends, stems the need for appropriate
pedagogies that enhance teaching and learning within this space. Additionally, at the turn of the millennium, we are seeing a
rise in the set of next generation learners. The next generation learners exhibit unique characteristics. They are comfortable
using technologies, like to socialize, and collaborate with peers and prefer hands-on experience. According to Rickes (2016),
learning is influenced by cognitive, social and experiential factors and therefore students learn best when they see the
content relevant to their lives. The author believes learners build on prior knowledge and collaborate with peers in solving
relevant problems. This also resonates with the ‘Adult learning theory” which researchers believe should be considered
while implementing online courses. According to Malcom Knowles’s Adult Learning theory (Britt, 2015), adult learners are
motivated when learning centers around their experiences and interests; adults being self-directed, the role of the teacher is to
facilitate learning instead of knowledge transmission; and adult education must cater to individual differences. Universities
are therefore required to constantly review their pedagogies and technologies in order to support the rising generation of adult
learners. Witthaus, Rodriquez, Guardia, and Campillo (2016) suggest Intelligent, Distributed, Engaging, Agile and Situated
pedagogies (IDEAS) framework for describing next generation pedagogy. This comprises of:
Intelligent pedagogy: Refers to use of various technologies to enhance learning experience for the students.
Distributed pedagogy: Refers to shared ownership of learning components by various stakeholders.
Engaging pedagogy: Refers to a curriculum that makes learning experiences engaging to the students.
Agile pedagogy: Refers to personalized learning pathways allowing flexibility of the curriculum to the learners.
Situated pedagogy: Refers to a curriculum with real-world relevance.
This framework sparked further interest in the area and formed the basis for current review. Previous research in the field
of online and blended learning has suggested variety of online teaching practices as well as conceptual frameworks for
implementing online courses. This research seeks to explore what the future of online and blended learning would look like
and what it means to next generation learners. The aim of this review is to identify trends and innovations in online and
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blended learning and to further evaluate the effectiveness of these trends. Furthermore, the review aims to map the trends to the
pedagogies identified within the IDEAS framework. Thus, the main question posed in this systematic review is:
1. What pedagogies support learning of next generation learners?
2. Methodology
The protocol for this systematic review was developed using preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and metaanalyses (PRISMA-P) statement (Shamseer et al., 2015)
2.1. Search strategies
Studies were identified through searching the following electronic databases: Academic OneFile, ERIC, CINAHL Plus,
Psychology Collection and Google Scholar. Following key words were used in various combinations: online learning, blended
learning, higher education, best practices, trends, ideas, approach, strategy, module, and framework. EndNote referencing
software was used for managing data.
2.2 Inclusion and exclusion criteria
The following inclusion criteria were applied: studies that addressed online learning and/or blended learning. Studies were
restricted to Higher Education, full text articles, publications from 2008 onwards and peer reviewed journals. Initial screening
of titles and abstracts was done followed by screening full-text of studies.
2.3 Study selection
While best practices in online teaching are suggested in various articles, only those that provide innovative trends or ideas not yet
explored in the literature were included. Qualitative, quantitative, as well as literature review studies were included in this review.
2.4 Data Extraction
Data extraction was completed using data extraction table showing following items: Author (year), research methodology,
cohort, ideas for online and blended learning in HE, key points, outcomes, statistical validity, bias.
2.5 Data synthesis
The review includes studies with different research designs. All studies are manually synthesized to provide a narrative
summary of the outcomes.
2.6 Critical appraisal
Critical appraisal of the selected articles was done using the 2011 Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) checklist (Pace et
al., 2012)
3. Results
Using the described methodology, the current review identified 10 relevant papers of which 5 were mixed methods, 1
quantitative study, 1 expert opinion, and 3 qualitative studies (see Figure 1).
Figure 1. PRISMA flow chart
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3.1. Risk of bias
Information on risk of bias was extracted for individual studies. The methodological quality criteria according to the MMAT
tool for qualitative, quantitative non-randomized and mixed methods study was applied based on the type of individual study.
Five studies (Hayes, Smith, & Shea, 2015; Jones & Lau, 2010; Ke & Xie, 2009; Miyazoe & Anderson, 2011; Sidebotham,
Jomeen, & Gamble, 2014) present relevant research design and integration of qualitative and quantitative data to answer the
research question. Appropriate consideration is given to the limitations of the studies. Therefore, there is low risk of bias
associated with these studies.
One study (Svenningsen & Pear, 2011) recruited participants in a way that minimizes selection bias as these are from the same
population. Variables are clearly defined and accurately measured. Dissimilarities between groups that may account for any
differences in outcomes are taken into consideration in the data analysis stage. Therefore, there is low risk of bias associated
with this study.
Three studies (Khoo & Cowie, 2011; Malczyk, 2018; Taib & Holden, 2013) include sources of qualitative data that are relevant
to address the research question. Descriptive statistics is used to analyze trends in the data. The research design and findings are
relevant to the purpose of the study. Therefore, there is low risk of bias associated with these studies.
High risk of bias is associated with study by Donnelly (2017) as it is a desk-based research study and the findings are based
on expert opinion of the authors in the field. Thus, appraisal with MMAT tool indicated low level of bias for 9 studies and
moderate level of bias for one study (see Table 1).
Table 1. Data extraction table
Author
(year)
Research
methodology
Sidebotham
et al. (2014)
Case report
Hayes et al.
(2015)
Cohort
Undergraduate
Mixed methods First year
Bachelor of
Midwifery
program
Case reportSchool of
Mixed methods nursing
Svenningsen Quantitative
and Pear
(2011)
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364 First year
university course
that introduces
students to
academic skills
IDEAS for Online
and Blended
learning HE
Teaching evidence
based practice and
research through
blended learning
Key points
Outcomes
Statistical validity
Bias
EBPR to be
taught early in
the programmeyear one,
semester two
Positive student
evaluations and
outcomes of the
course.
Pre and post course
evaluations performed;
Low
Pedagogical
strategies to help
foster regulatory
behaviours in
online learners
Foster regulatory
behaviours in
online learners:
self-regulation,
co-regulation and
shared regulation
Computer-aided
personalized system
of instruction
in developing
knowledge and
critical thinking in
blended learning
courses
Advanced
students (Peer
reviewers) within
the course to
provide feedback
on unit tests
78% students completed
pre course and 58% of
students completed post
course evaluation
Low
Learners’
Inter-rater reliability
discourse in the (IRR) exceeded 0.70
online learning Cohort size: 18 students
environment
435 messages were
demonstrated
each regulation analysed quantitatively
and qualitatively
type within
the Learning
presence (LP)
construct
low
Testing against critical
The CAPSI
thinking assessment tool
sections
achieved higher (Applied Critical thinking
measure)
exam scores
than the nonMean reliability score of
CAPSI sections 0.85 was obtained
Students in
Difference in the final
blended courses exam between two
performs well
sections P=0.053
or better than
students in
strictly lectureStudents can take based courses
CAPSI unit tests CAPSI an
effective
on their own
component for
schedules
developing
critical thinking
and course
knowledge in
blended designs
Students must
demonstrate
mastery on each
study unit before
proceeding to the
next unit
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Tabel 1. cont.
Author
(year)
Research
methodology
Donnelly
(2017)
Systematic
Not specified
literature review
and Expert
opinion
Cohort
Desk-based
research study
IDEAS for Online
and Blended
Key points
learning HE
Blended problembased learning
module as a
transformative
strategy to teaching
and learning
Importance
of sociotechnological
network,
collaborative
learning,
znternational
guest lecturers
Outcomes
Statistical validity
Bias
Enhance
learner’s
autonomy,
self-esteem
and intrinsic
motivation to
learn
Nil as this study was
a literature review and
expert opinion
High
11 out of 14 students
in the course consented
to participate in the
research;
Low
Characteristics
of PBL: studentcentred, taskfocussed,
research-based,
collaborative
learning
Khoo and
Case study
Cowie (2011) Qualitative
methodology
New Zealand
tertiary
institutiongraduate course
Framework for
online learning
community.
Framework depicts
learning as a
mediated, situated,
distributed, goaldirected, and
participatory
activity within
a socially and
culturally
determined learning
community
Findings showed
evidence of
the value of
mediated,
situated, and
distributed
Participation as participation
situated activity- and shifts in
participant goals
authentic and
relevant activities
Participation as
mediated action:
Web-based tools
and activities
as mediational
means;
325 online student
contributions and
83 lecturer online
contributions
Participation
as distributed
cognitionstudents access
knowledge,
understanding
and skills
distributed across
the group
Participation as
goal-directedgoal-directed
learning
activities
Ke and Xie
(2009)
Mixed methods Nursing,
study
business
management and
education
Design of
collaborative
learning and
discussion tasks
that reinforce
higher level, deeplearning-oriented
online interactions
Critical
dimension of
online course
design is the
design of online
discussion tasks
at a deeper level;
Integrated online
course design
models (most
of students’
study time
spent on online
discussions and
team projects)
facilitate highest
satisfaction level
toward learning;
51 students participated
in the study from 10
online courses;
Low
P < .05 for all variables
Close-ended
questions depict
lower level of
satisfaction with
online learning
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Tabel 1. cont.
Author
(year)
Research
methodology
Jones and
Lau (2010)
Case study
Cohort
Courses on
Mixed methods entrepreneurial
skills, business,
management
IDEAS for Online
and Blended
Key points
learning HE
Institutional
flexibility, credit
accumulation,
transferability
and promote
lifelong learning;
constructivist
pedagogy
Face-to-face
induction for
online learning,
participate on the
discussion board
by completing
induction
exercises, these
formed part of
the students’ first
assignment and
the induction
was credit rated,
assigned a
buddy;
Outcomes
Statistical validity
Supported non- 6 further education
colleges worked with the
traditional
main university in the
students;
project in Wales
Widened
Bias
Low
participation,
confidence,
Course-multiple
exit routes
Student supporta single point
of contact
+ weekdays
and weekend
customer
support;
Students were
given the choice
on the amount
of face to face
contact they
required
Taib and
Holden
(2013)
Practice report Faculties of
Action research Business and
Economics and
Qualitative
information
study
technology
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A third generation
approach- A
partnership
approach to
making research
and learning skills
explicit within the
curriculum of first
year core units
Coming together
of non-faculty
staff and
faculty staff;
collaboration
between faculty
academics,
librarians
and learning
skills advisers;
adaptation of
RSD framework
79
Small and
large group
discussions
provided
feedback on the
mapping process
and pointed to
the potential
impact of these
frameworks to
explicitly locate
research and
learning skills
in the first year
curriculum,
feedback also
provided on
having a ‘oneteam’ curriculum
design and
delivery
approach
Action research involved Low
a cycle of action, review
and systematic reflection
resulting in a consultative
protocol
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Tabel 1. cont.
Author
(year)
Research
methodology
Malczyk
(2018)
Case study,
Qualitative
methodology
Miyazoe and Design-based
Anderson
research study;
(2011)
mixed-method
study
Cohort
IDEAS for Online
and Blended
Key points
learning HE
Outcomes
Statistical validity
Bias
Course on social Multimodal
policies
instructioninstructor to prepare
and to offer the
course in multiple
ways each week;
offering the course
on a module-bymodule or lessonby-lesson bases
whereby students
can choose their
needed modality
for that week
Provides
students with
the autonomy
to dictate their
own terms of a
blended course;
students in a
multimodal
course choose
on a weekly
basis whether
to participate in
learning activities
synchronously
online,
asynchronously
online, or face to
face
Response to
multimodal
instruction
was positive;
positive student
feedback,
students prefer
the opportunity
to make a
week-by-week
decision about
the modality of
instruction rather
than one time
choice prior to
the beginning of
semester
22 students; randomly
Low
selected to three
groups: fully online,
asynchronous, face to
face and these students
rotated to take each of the
three modalities; 3 week
period; 14/22 completed
end of experiment survey
CourseIntroduction
to English for
Academic
Purposes
Anonymity as
a pedagogical
intervention
in writing
instruction; at
the end of the
semester the
students reported
their pseudonyms
to the instructor
for grading
purposes
Higher online
participation;
enhanced
learning
outcomes in
blended learning
63 students participated;
15 students volunteered
for interview; five
data sources used for
triangulation
Implementing
discussion forums
and blog writings
using pseudonyms
in blended learning
Low
3.2. Outcomes
Given the heterogeneity of methodology and outcome variables, a meta-analysis was not possible. Considering the objectives
of the review, the following outcomes have been identified: 5 studies identified innovative designs. 5 studies identified
innovative pedagogies. 2 studies discussed curriculum (see Table 1).
3.2.1 Designs
Sidebotham et al. (2014) describes the design of evidence based practice and research (EBPR) course delivered in blended
model. Collaborative activities, role play, interactive online modules and assessments formed the core components of the
blended course to promote engagement. Two day workshops offered on campus covered core themes and topics related to
EBPR. The interactive modules involved discussion on research questions, assessment items and critical analysis of research
papers. Although, positive student evaluations and outcomes were achieved at the end of the EBPR course, participant sample
size was limited with only 30 participants completing the post-course survey. As well as the pre and post course survey does
not provide statistical significance data and therefore the outcomes cannot be generalized. Svenningsen and Pear (2011)
through their study indicated Computer-aided personalized system of instruction (CAPSI) as a blended learning design that is
a viable option in higher education. CAPSI is a computerized form of personalized instruction that is mediated through use of
web-based technology resources. In addition to using web-based tools, CAPSI uses more advanced students within a course
to provide feedback on unit tests as opposed to the traditional form of instruction where advanced students from outside the
course provide feedback. The statistical evaluation of the results along with large cohort size add reliability and validity to
the findings of the study and the course design. Study findings from Ke and Xie (2009) indicate an integrated online course
model that promotes highest learning satisfaction and deep learning. Within such a model, content is fluid and not structured
and most of students’ study time is spent on online discussions and team projects. The course design included introductory
readings, interactive discussions for content comprehension followed by collaborative assignments. The statistical analysis as
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well as descriptive analysis of the results strongly support the outcomes of the study. Blended course design by Jones and Lau
(2010) widened participation in higher education by allowing institutional flexibility and promoting opportunities for lifelong
learning. The course offered credit rated face-to-face induction sessions for online learning, multiple exit routes within the
credit framework, weekdays and weekend student support as well as flexibility allowing students to choose the amount of face
to face contact they required. These factors paved ways for lifelong learning by emphasizing on institutional flexibility, credit
accumulation and transferability. The students identified improvement in their knowledge and skills which in turn increased
self-efficacy and personal satisfaction. Malczyk (2018) proposed a multimodal instruction blended course design that offered
the course in multiple ways providing students with the autonomy to dictate their own terms of a blended course. Students
in a multimodal instruction choose on a weekly basis whether to participate in learning activities synchronously online,
asynchronously online, or face to face. The response to this form of course design was positive whereby students preferred the
opportunity to make weekly decisions about the modality of instruction rather than one time selection at the start of semester.
Overall, the course designs enhanced learning satisfaction amongst students and increased academic outcomes. Studies
included mixed methods, quantitative and qualitative methodologies and low bias was indicated for these studies. Mapping to
IDEAS framework, most of these designs correlated to agile pedagogy where the designs provide flexibility and customization
of the course and the student experience.
3.2.1.1. Evidence-based practice through blended learning
The innovative idea highlighted in this review was evidence based practice being taught through a blended learning module.
Wide range of professions and in particular health professions are transitioning to evidence-based practice (EBP). Educational
institutions are now offering an EBP curriculum in the face-to-face environment. However, the training in this area seems to
be insufficient as well as the learning outcomes. Educators are therefore investigating the role of blended learning module in
teaching evidence-based practice. The EBPR course design through blended learning suggested in this review by Mary, Julie,
and Jennifer (2014) revealed positive student evaluations and outcomes. The review conducted by Rohwer, Motaze, Rehfuess,
Young, and Campbell (2017) revealed blended learning had positive impact on evidence based health care knowledge, skills,
attitude and behavior when compared with face-to-face learning and only e-learning. Similarly, a randomized controlled trial of
a blended learning education intervention for teaching evidence-based medicine revealed increasing medical students’ attitude
towards EBM and use in clinical practice (Ilic, Nordin, Glasziou, Tilson, & Villanueva, 2015). The study however, did not see
significant improvement in students’ knowledge and skills in EBM when compared to didactic learning approach of teaching.
Overall, blended learning as a design seems to be a promising next generation pedagogy.
3.2.1.2. Personalized system of instruction through online and blended learning
Keller’s personalized system of instruction (PSI) was introduced in the late 1960s (Eyre, 2007). With PSI, students progress
through the course at their own pace and are required to demonstrate mastery on each study unit before proceeding to the next
unit, peer reviewers within the course are to provide individualized feedback on unit tests and students can take the tests on
their own schedule (Price, 2000; Svenningsen & Pear, 2011). Computer and internet technology has now enabled to create PSI
programs such as computer-aided personalized system of instruction (CAPSI). CAPSI seems to be compatible with a blended
learning approach (Svenningsen & Pear, 2011) whereby, online and blended learning designs have changed the traditional role
of lecturer into that of a facilitator (Eyre, 2007). Similarly, various other web technologies through online and blended learning
designs have allowed delivery of learning resources along with individualized assessment system to cater to individual students
(Gok, 2010; Kim, Olfman, Ryan, & Eryilmaz, 2014). These studies have shown to enhance students’ problem solving skills as
well as self-directed learning abilities. Thus relating to the IDEAS framework, these pedagogies and technologies relate to agile
pedagogy whereby the PSI through online and blended learning modules offers personalized learning pathways to students,
individual learning support, and a flexible curriculum. This innovative trend lays foundation for the next generation learning.
3.2.1.3 Flexibility in instruction
Innovative course designs suggested in three studies highlighted flexibility in course structure and delivery. The online course
design adopted by Ke and Xie (2009) in their study incorporated a fluid course content along with collaborative activities and
online discussions. The findings in this study revealed greater learner satisfaction and academic performance. Jones and Lau
(2010) presented a flexible institutional model that encompassed open entry policy, full degree programs as well as staged
awards in the forms of certificate programs, credit rated modules and multiple exit routes. The teaching and learning delivered
through this blended learning module contributed to widening participation, entrepreneurship and lifelong learning. Another
flexible mode of instruction is presented in the study conducted by Malczyk (2018). According to the author the multimodal
instruction enhances student autonomy by allowing them to select their own terms of blended course in terms of participating
in activities synchronously online, asynchronously online, or face-to-face. Thus, these innovative trends align with agile
pedagogy as suggested in the IDEAS framework and form an important aspect of next generation pedagogy in higher
education. Educators and institutions are moving away from the traditional ‘one size fits all’ approach to a more customized
approach providing students with wide range of learning options and support. Next generation online and blended learning
pedagogy will provide new horizons in the development of higher education.
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3.2.2. Pedagogies
Five studies (see Table 2) suggest innovative pedagogies that promote a strong online learning community thereby highlighting
the importance of constructive pedagogy. Studies are mixed methods and qualitative studies. Low bias was indicated for
4 studies and moderate bias indicated for 1 study. Mapping to IDEAS framework, most of these pedagogies correlate to
distributed pedagogy, engaging pedagogy and situated pedagogy that accounts for distributed ownership of various learning
components by actively engaging students to solve real-world problems. The studies highlight the importance of a strong
online learning community to enhance teaching and learning in this space. According to Speily and Kardan (2018), online
learning community is a kind of learning platform where learners with common goals come together and share knowledge
without having any restriction of time and space. Effective online practices foster interactions that support learners socially and
academically
Table 2. Summary of innovative pedagogies identified in this review.
Author/Study
Pedagogy
Hayes et al. (2015)
Study findings demonstrate pedagogical strategies to promote self-regulation, co-regulation
and shared regulation in the online learning environment
Donnelly (2017)
Proposes blended problem-based learning as a transformative strategy based on sociotechnological network
Khoo and Cowie (2011)
Pedagogical strategies that introduce authentic, relevant, goal-directed learning activities
within a framework for online learning community. The framework depicts learning as a
mediated, situated, distributed, goal-directed, and participatory activity within a socially and
culturally determined learning community
Ke and Xie (2009)
Study findings demonstrate collaborative learning as a pedagogical strategy to enforce
higher level, deep-learning-oriented online interactions
Miyazoe and Anderson (2011)
Identify anonymity as a pedagogical intervention within discussion forums and blog
writings using pseudonyms in blended learning
3.2.2.1. Distributed pedagogy
The concept of distributed ownership is highlighted in this review. It includes collaboration between learners, institutions, and
teachers. As participants interact with each other, they share and create a new understanding of knowledge that would otherwise
be difficult for an individual (Khoo & Cowie, 2011). This aligns with Vygotsky’s social constructivist theory. According to this
theory, social interaction is fundamental in the development of cognition as learners co-construct knowledge (Mahn, 1999).
Pedagogical strategies that foster self-regulation, co-regulation and shared regulation between learners as well as pedagogies
such as collaborative learning enhance interactions between students thereby creating a strong online learning community. As
such, the online teacher plays an important role in facilitating the communications. Additionally, study presented by Miyazoe
and Anderson (2011) revealed improvement in writing skills through collaborative revision. In this study, students interacted
with peers in text revision towards the final drafts. Within the IDEAS framework of distributed pedagogy, ownership for
different components of the learning journey is distributed to various stakeholders.
3.2.2.2. Situated pedagogy
IDEAS framework suggests situated pedagogy as the next generation pedagogy that emphasizes the need for curricula with
real-world relevance. The framework highlights the importance of providing students with work-related opportunities and
experience through project and problem-based learning (PBL). Aligned with this suggestion, the current review identified 2
studies that discussed incorporation of authentic, relevant activities to enhance learning. Khoo and Cowie (2011) suggests
selection of authentic and relevant tasks to depict real-life research issues and establish collaboration with peers. The authors
believe such activities are likely to foster student interaction and contribute to the development of a collaborative online
community. Similarly, Donnelly (2017) suggests blended problem-based learning meets the need for creating authentic learning
environments. The author believes a socio-technological model such as blended PBL promotes active learning and enhances
the learner’s autonomy, self-esteem and intrinsic motivation to learn. Thus, situated pedagogy will allow next generation
learners to identify and solve issues relevant to their industry and society.
3.2.3. Curriculum
2 studies in this review identified innovative trends in the area of curriculum. The 2 studies highlight the importance of
research skills early on in the degree courses. The studies included mixed methods and action research study. Low bias was
indicated for both the studies. The concept of introducing research courses early in the curriculum has been controversial in
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the undergraduate setting. However, much emphasis is now laid on evidence based practice and therefore the importance of
research skills. In particular, health profession is undergoing a major overhaul by shifting from traditional-based practice to
evidence-based practice. Sidebotham et al. (2014) emphasize evidence based practice and research skills in undergraduate
degree programs within the curriculum of first year units. Traditionally, students find EBP courses challenging. However, the
positive outcomes of the study validate the decision to introduce evidence based practice research course early on. The course
was introduced through blended learning module. Not only did the students appreciate the need to practice within an evidence
based framework, but also sparked an enthusiasm for becoming actively involved in research. Additionally, the blended
learning module enhanced student engagement and yielded a sense of satisfaction. Similar to this study, Taib and Holden (2013)
emphasize a partnership approach to making research and learning skills explicit within the curriculum of first year units. The
partnership model is informed by the Research Skills Development (RSD) Framework. RSD framework is intended to inform
curriculum and assessment design to promote research skills across a student’s educational lifetime (Willison & O’Regan,
2007). The framework conceptualizes research skill development in early years of undergraduate studies in order to provide
quality researchers to deal with the challenges of 21st century. To that end, the partnership model in this review involves
pedagogical conversations between teaching faculty, learning skills advisers and librarians. It highlights shared responsibility
and collaboration between non-faculty staff such as librarians and learning skills advisors, and academic staff.
Mapping to IDEAS framework, the ideas suggested in these 2 studies correlate to distributed pedagogy referring to shared
ownership of learning components as well as situated pedagogy where learners solve real-world problems through scholarly
research. Thus next generation pedagogy within higher education will envisage growth in research development and blended
learning could probably augment this learning process.
4. Discussion
The aim of this review was to identify trends and innovations in online and blended learning that suit next generation adult
learners. To that end, the study presented innovative ideas that can be used to implement designs, pedagogies and curriculum
in higher education. The findings of this study align with the adult learning theory whereby the designs, pedagogies and
curriculum are known to enhance learner’s autonomy, self-efficacy, intrinsic motivation, satisfaction and academic performance
in the online environment. Students achieved better understanding of course knowledge and received higher grades in their
assessments. This reveals that students not only were satisfied by the strategies but they also exhibited enhanced learning.
The review highlights the importance of having a curriculum with real-world relevance, also called as experiential learning.
By allowing research skill development at an early on period and incorporating problem-based learning, learners are able to
actively participate in research activities enabling them to solve problems in real context. Collaborating with peers to seek
real-world solutions seems to be the way going forwards. Learners are able to socialize and actively participate in the learning
process as opposed to passively receive information from teachers. The innovative ideas discussed in this study inform
planning of next generation online and blended learning in higher education. The review also aimed to map the trends to the
pedagogies identified within the IDEAS framework. To that end, the review identified innovative approaches in online and/or
blended learning which point to next-generation pedagogy. These are:
Distributed pedagogy: Educators believe the role of teachers is to enable students to learn how to learn and take responsibility
for their own learning (Johnson et al., 2009). Condie and Livingston’s study (2007, as cited in (Johnson et al., 2009) describes
this as having the ability to create an effective learning environment whereby students are actively engaged in the learning
process thus developing a sense of ownership. These concepts resonate with self-regulated learning which is central to online
learning. Online learning requires students to possess self-generated ability to control, manage, and plan their learning actionsoverall engage in a regulatory process, referred to as ‘self-regulated learning’ (Zimmerman, 1989, as cited in (Goradia &
Bugarcic, 2017). Thus, while current research and theories discuss individual ownership, this review highlights distributed
ownership as the next generation pedagogy central to online learning. The concept of shared ownership of learning between
various stakeholders is well appreciated in this review. A partnership model allows collaboration between teaching and nonteaching staff with the teaching staff focusing on curriculum and non-teaching staff focusing on skill development and
providing learner support. As well as the importance of online learning community is highlighted in this review. Pedagogies
that enforce self-regulation and shared regulation between learners are encouraged in the online environment. Pedagogies that
enhance interactions and communications to promote deeper learning of content are recognized in this review.
Agile pedagogy: The concept of allowing flexibility in learning and providing personalized learning pathways is well
appreciated in this review. Modules and assessments that students can take at their own pace, a flexible unit structure as
opposed to a rigid structure, and computer-aided personalized system of support are some of the highlights in this review.
These pedagogies widen participation in higher education and pave ways for lifelong learning. Although this pedagogy does
not support ‘one size fits all’ approach, the suggested customized approach may encounter challenges in its implementation.
This requires policy makers, institutions as well as academics to make necessary changes in the online delivery process.
Situated pedagogy: The concept of including a curriculum with real-world relevance is well portrayed in this review. The
review informs course co-coordinators and institutions to promote scholarly research to solve real-world problems. The IDEAS
DOI: 10.26855/er.2019.07.003
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Tirtha Goradia
framework suggests providing work-relating opportunities for students in accordance with their professional and personal goals.
Thus, this review aimed to answer the research question: What pedagogies support next generation learners? In doing so, the
identified pedagogies provide strategic framework towards the planning for the future of online and blended higher education.
The innovative ideas will enable online and blended higher education to widen student participation and prepare students for
lifelong learning. This study suggests educational institutions to explore innovative practices that support learning of next
generation learners. Collectively, a change at institutional level and involvement of multiple stakeholders is essential to address
the needs of next generation learners.
5. Limitation
Few studies had small sample sizes. 1 study was based on expert opinion. More rigorous research design and comparison
group is essential to contribute to reliability and validity of the outcomes. In spite of these limitations, the review provides an
invaluable insight into future planning of online and blended courses in higher education.
6. Conclusion
This review identified next generation pedagogies, the new trends, suggested for online and blended learning in higher
education. With widening participation, student engagement, improved learning outcomes and student autonomy, the next
generation pedagogies mediated through technologies seem promising. The trends support student centricity paving ways for
lifelong learning. This has implications for academics, administrators, educational institutions as well as policy makers seeking
to improve the online and blended learning pathways in higher education. Further research is essential in evaluating whether the
course designs, pedagogies and curricula suggested in this review will be effective in various discipline and institutional settings.
Acknowledgements
The author wishes to thank library staff for assistance with proof reading of the article.
Funding
This research did not receive any specific grant from funding agencies in the public, commercial, or not-for-profit sectors.
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becoming researchers. Higher Education Research & Development(4), 393. doi:10.1080/07294360701658609
Witthaus, G., Rodriquez, B. C. P., Guardia, L., & Campillo, C. G. (2016). Next generation pedagogy: Ideas for online and
blended higher education. Retrieved from
Britt, M. (2015). How to Better Engage Online Students with Online Strategies. College Student Journal, 49(3), 399-404.
Donnelly, R. (2017). Blended problem-based learning in higher education: The intersection of social learning and technology.
Psychosociological Issues in Human Resource Management, 5, 25+.
Eyre, H. L. (2007). Keller's Personalized System of Instruction: Was It a Fleeting Fancy or Is There a Revival on the Horizon?
Behavior Analyst Today, 8(3), 317-324.
Gok, T. (2010). Using Computer-Assisted Personalized Assignment System in a Large-Enrollment General Physics. European
Journal of Physics Education, 1(1), 28-43.
Goradia, T., & Bugarcic, A. (2017). A social cognitive view of self-regulated learning within online environment. Advances in
Integrative Medicine, 4(1), 5-6. doi:10.1016/j.aimed.2017.05.001
Hayes, S., Smith, S. U., & Shea, P. (2015). Expanding learning presence to account for the direction of regulative intent: self-,
co- and shared regulation in online learning. Online Learning Journal (OLJ), 19, 15+.
Ilic, D., Nordin, R. B., Glasziou, P., Tilson, J. K., & Villanueva, E. (2015). A randomised controlled trial of a blended learning
education intervention for teaching evidence-based medicine. BMC Medical Education, 15, 39-39. doi:10.1186/s12909-015-0321-6
Johnson, N., List-Ivankovic, J., Eboh, W., Ireland, J., Adams, D., Mowatt, E., & Martindale, S. (2009). Research and evidence
based practice: Using a blended approach to teaching and learning in undergraduate nurse education (Vol. 10).
Jones, N., & Lau, A. M. S. (2010). Blending Learning: Widening Participation in Higher Education. Innovations in Education
and Teaching International, 47(4), 405-416.
Ke, F., & Xie, K. (2009). Toward Deep Learning for Adult Students in Online Courses. Internet and Higher Education, 12(3),
136-145.
DOI: 10.26855/er.2019.07.003
85
The Educational Review, USA
Tirtha Goradia
Khoo, E., & Cowie, B. (2011). A Framework for Developing and Implementing an Online Learning Community. Journal of
Open, Flexible and Distance Learning, 15(1), 47-59.
Kim, R., Olfman, L., Ryan, T., & Eryilmaz, E. (2014). Leveraging a personalized system to improve self-directed learning in
online educational environments. Computers & Education, 70, 150-160. doi:10.1016/j.compedu.2013.08.006
Mahn, H. (1999). Vygotsky's Methodological Contribution to Sociocultural Theory. Remedial & Special Education, 20(6), 341.
doi:10.1177/074193259902000607
Malczyk, B. R. (2018). Multimodal Instruction, the New Hybrid: A Student-Centered Approach to Blended Learning. Journal
of Nonprofit Education and Leadership, 8, 16+.
Mary, S., Julie, J., & Jennifer, G. (2014). Teaching evidence based practice and research through blended learning to
undergraduate midwifery students from a practice based perspective. Nurse Education in Practice, 14(2), 220-224.
doi:10.1016/j.nepr.2013.10.001
Miyazoe, T., & Anderson, T. (2011). Anonymity in blended learning: who would you like to be? Educational Technology &
Society, 14, 175+.
Nikolaidou, M., Sofianopoulou, C., Alexopoulou, N., Abeliotis, K., Detsis, V., Chalkias, C., . . . Anagnostopoulos, D. (2010).
The blended learning ecosystem of an academic institution in Greece. International Journal of Web-Based Learning and
Teaching Technologies, 5, 14+.
Pace, R., Pluye, P., Bartlett, G., Macaulay, A. C., Salsberg, J., Jagosh, J., & Seller, R. (2012). Testing the reliability and
efficiency of the pilot Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) for systematic mixed studies review. Int J Nurs Stud, 49(1), 4753. doi:10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2011.07.002
Price, R. V. (2000). PSI Revisited: Designing College Courses Using the Personalized System of Instruction (PSI) Model.
Retrieved from https://login.ezproxy.endeavour.edu.au:2443/login?url=http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db
=eric&AN=ED442324&site=eds-live&scope=site
Rickes, P. C. (2016). Generations in flux How Gen Z will continue to transform higher education. Planning for Higher
Education, 44(4), 21-45.
Rohwer, A., Motaze, N. V., Rehfuess, E., Young, T., & Campbell, C. (2017). E-Learning of Evidence-Based Health Care (EBHC)
in Healthcare Professionals: A Systematic Review. Campbell Systematic Reviews 2017:4: Campbell Collaboration.
Shamseer, L., Moher, D., Clarke, M., Ghersi, D., Liberati, A., Petticrew, M., . . . Group, P.-P. (2015). Preferred reporting
items for systematic review and meta-analysis protocols (PRISMA-P) 2015: elaboration and explanation. BMJ, 349, g7647.
doi:10.1136/bmj.g7647
Speily, O. R. B., & Kardan, A. A. (2018). Increasing Information Reposting Behavior in Online Learning Community. Journal
of Educational Technology & Society, 21(4), 100-110.
Svenningsen, L., & Pear, J. J. (2011). Effects of computer-aided personalized system of instruction in developing knowledge
and critical thinking in blended learning courses. The Behavior Analyst Today, 12, 33+.
Taib, A., & Holden, J. (2013). "Third generation" conversations--a partnership approach to embedding research and learning
skills development in the first year. A practice report. The International Journal of the First Year in Higher Education, 4, 131+.
Willison, J., & O’Regan, K. (2007). Commonly known, commonly not known, totally unknown: a framework for students
becoming researchers. Higher Education Research & Development(4), 393. doi:10.1080/07294360701658609
Witthaus, G., Rodriquez, B. C. P., Guardia, L., & Campillo, C. G. (2016). Next generation pedagogy: Ideas for online and
blended higher education. Retrieved from http://openaccess.uoc.edu/webapps/o2/bitstream/10609/51441/1/Next_Generation_
Pedagogy.pdf
DOI: 10.26855/er.2019.07.003
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The Educational Review, USA