University students' perspective on blended learning

This research project explored students' perspective of the appropriate mix of online and face-to-face activities in a master's programme in library and information science at an Australian university. Identifying aspects that students evaluate as supportive, challenging and efficient in their learning is important for the design of an appropriate mix in blended learning courses. Twenty-three master's students responded to a questionnaire containing 40 open-ended and closed questions. Applying both statistical and content analysis provides a deeper understanding of students' responses. Students like the flexibility and the convenience of online learning, but also the possibilities that derive from face-to-face interaction with teachers and peers for building personal learning networks. Students expect equal quality from all forms of learning delivery and were critical of the quality of online participation and lecture recordings. Blended learning is an approach that supports a range of learning styles and life styles.