TED-Ed web-based blended learning to support teaching: An action research project

Abstract

[EN] The use of video material to support the pedagogical shift to blended learning has begun being utilised in traditional campus based universities. This student centred approach has supported higher education practitioners in adapting their practice to better meet the diverse student populations entering university. An action research project utilizing TED-Ed to introduce out of class, student centred learning was conducted by a Dubai based lecturer. A class of 65 students enrolled in a second year Psychology module completed between one to three online activities and answered a qualitative survey sharing their opinions towards completing the tasks. The results showed that blended learning could be effectively used as a teaching tool to support practice in a ‘traditional’ university with a focus on the lecture/seminar approach. Lecturers seeking to extend their students’ learning into out of class environments should consider the use of TED-Ed as a suitable tool for not only achieving this but also supporting the needs of 21st century tertiary students.