Learning Binder

Blended Learning in the Development Context

Experience with GDLN in Asia-Pacific

Announcing a New Easy-to-Use Guide for GDLN Activities

A comprehensive guide with all-you-need-to-know to conduct effective blended learning sessions using the GDLN has been completed with the support of the TDLC. Titled “Blended Learning in the Development Context - Experience with GDLN in Asia-Pacific”, the guide takes the form of an accessible “Learning Binder” consisting of 9 short papers that cover basic concepts, terminologies, program design and implementation.

The authors, TDLC senior instructional designer Jiping Zhang and Charles Maguire have drawn widely from the rich experience of the GDLN, which now spans over 80 countries, incorporating real-life examples illustrating innovative uses of the network. Blended learning uses a combination of distance learning technologies to produce optimal learning outcomes. The Binder was produced in response to increasing demand by development professionals and practitioners for blended learning programs and activities using the GDLN. It provides support and guidance for staff of GDLN affiliates as well as their partners and clients, and is certain to be valued by professionals who design and implement blended learning programs for a variety of audiences.

The Binder is organized in three parts. Part 1 (papers 1&2) gives an overview of learning, development, and the role of information and communication technology. Part 2 (papers 3-6) examines blended learning and the delivery of programs through the GDLN. Part 3 (papers 7-9) describes techniques and procedures used in designing blended learning programs for the GDLN. Papers can be selected and used independently or in various combinations depending on the users’ interests and needs.