As a special education practitioner, staying ahead of the curve is essential for delivering the best possible support to your students. One emerging approach that has shown significant promise is blended learning, especially in the context of self-regulated learning (SRL) for students with short hospital stays. The research article, "From the Hospital Bed to the Laptop at Home: Effects of a Blended Self-Regulated Learning Intervention," provides valuable insights into how this method can be applied effectively.
Blended learning combines face-to-face and online instructional activities to support and enhance the learning experience. In the study, hospitalized adolescents were trained in SRL strategies through a blend of in-person and online sessions. The intervention was shown to be effective in improving students' use of SRL strategies, perceived instrumentality, and self-efficacy.
Here are some key takeaways from the research that you can implement in your practice:
- Embrace Blended Learning: Utilize a mix of face-to-face and online sessions to deliver therapy and educational interventions. This approach can bridge the gap between hospital and home, ensuring continuity in the students' learning process.
- Focus on Self-Regulated Learning: Equip students with SRL strategies to help them take control of their learning process. This includes goal setting, planning, monitoring, and evaluating their progress.
- Use Technology Wisely: Integrate ICT tools to maintain engagement and provide flexible learning opportunities. Ensure that the technology used is accessible and user-friendly for both students and their families.
- Customize Interventions: Tailor your interventions to meet the specific needs of each student. Consider factors such as age, grade level, and previous academic performance to maximize the impact of your efforts.
Implementing these strategies can help you overcome some of the challenges associated with providing educational support to hospitalized students. By leveraging the power of blended learning and SRL, you can enhance their educational experience and improve their overall well-being.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: From the Hospital Bed to the Laptop at Home: Effects of a Blended Self-Regulated Learning Intervention.
