Blended Learning in Rural Social Work Education: Reflections from a New Australian Bachelor of Social Work Course

Abstract

This paper explores the developmental stages and phases of a new blended learning social work course at a rural Australian university. The background to the development of the discipline will be presented, with an exploration of the challenges and outcomes of designing an interactive online environment for a single cohort of on-campus and distance students. Themes explored cover engaging students, motivation, acculturation and facilitation. The paper concludes with the presentation of data from wave one of a longitudinal survey to ensure student expectations are being met, while at the same time providing an accredited programme of study.

Keywords:

• Online Learning
• Blended Learning
• Facilitation
• Engagement
• Social Work

Notes

^[1] ‘Unit’ is the term used to describe the most basic component of study. Units accumulate to form a course of study, e.g. Bachelor of Social Work.

^[2] While this may apply to all students, it has been evident to the instructor that while some students appear to easily adapt to a new environment, others take longer to gain comfort and confidence.

^[3] Blackboard was the Learning Management System used at the University of New England at the time these data were collected.