Building a Sustainable Blended Learning Model UCD Occupational Safety and Health Programme Helen Guerin and Anne Drummond University College Dublin
History & Development Blended learning model developed in framework OSH legislation –EU: Framework legislation 1989 –Ireland: transition from sector-based to framework legislation 1989 –Training need for employees and managers with OSH responsibilities identified
Programme Objective (OSH) To provide multidisciplinary training in the basic principles of OSH legislation, and best practice in risk management and occupational safety and health management for employees, supervisors and managers Needs analysis identified unique market and expertise characteristics, requiring a novel solution
Schedule 1-year part-time programme Students attend a local centre for 2 hours / week x 25 weeks 1-hour TV lecture + 1-hour tutorial Self-directed and work-based learning through assessment
sites 19 student groups 474 students
Stakeholder Relationships
6 Pedagogical Components 1.Programme material 2.Self-assessment questions 3.Live TV-delivered lecture 4.Phone-in question and answer session 5.Tutorial 6.Assessment by assignment and examination
Delivery – Blended Learning –Live satellite lecture –Phone-in question and answer session –Video conference –Fibre optic Cable Download frequency MHZ POL 625 Pal MPE 4:2: hsymb/s FEC 3/4
Advantages for Students Local access to up-to-date national expertise Minimal time off work, particularly for employees in the in- company centres Recognised qualification and certification Progression pathway
Strengths of the Model Legislation-driven content Concurrent delivery of consistent content to large numbers of students Wide geographical access (satellite footprint is centred over Europe) Reliable technology Transferable across boundaries Adaptable delivery format
Challenges of the Model Large numbers of students Large numbers of stakeholders Indirect control (technical, site and broadcast partners) Heavy administrative and co-ordination burden on providers
Pedagogical Developments Peer learning Problem-based learning Situated learning Self-directed learning Modularisation Research-led teaching
Technological Developments Satellite TV Fibre optic cable (MAN) Video Conferencing IPTV
Reflections 14 th year completed in 2007 >5,000 students successfully completed to date 90%+ pass rate 95% completion rate Transmission delivery success > 98% Transmission receive site failure rare – prompt follow-up and back-up facilities
Conclusions Stakeholders work together to develop solutions that meet learner needs Ongoing review, reflection and development (pedagogic and technical) Questions??? Contact: