래피드 프로토타입 개발 방법론을 활용한 실시간 혼합형 교육 프로그램 개발 사례연구 -과학기술인을 대상으로-

Abstract

Synchronous blended learning, where both online and offline students simultaneously participate in class activities within the same space, is emerging as a new form of education in Post COVID-19 era and it is necessary to conduct research to explore the possibility of synchronous blended learning in various fields. Therefore, this study designed and operated synchronous blended learning programs for learners of K institution, a national institution that provides education for scientists and engineers, to analyze learners' perceptions, and to this end, a rapid prototype development methodology was used. Four prototype developments and their usability evaluations were conducted in this study. The developed course, titled “Science Communicator Training Course,” aims to teach “to communicate science by taking into consideration the subject, goal and circumstance.” The course is comprised of four modules (the importance of science communication, science speaking, science presentation, and science writing) and employs various teaching methods, like lectures, practical training and interactive activities, to reach the abovementioned learning goal. Regarding the learner's interview, they felt that they had achieved their goals, education wise, regardless of the type of participation, online or offline, and did not think that their results and success were related to the type of participation. In addition, it was confirmed that various educational methods such as practical and interactions as well as lectures type can be effective in Online synchronous classes. However, the learners raised problems with the inconveniences of such methods, such as communication from the instructors and problems in the educational environment. In the future, it is necessary not only to study the elements of the competency of teachers involved in synchronous blended programs or classes, but also to explore the different elements that make up the overall experience of participating learners. This study verified whether synchronous blended learning may be applied in not only higher education, but also in lifelong education where students of varying age and corporate rank participate. It also confirmed the potential of applying synchronous blended learning in both lecture-type teaching method and student-oriented teaching methods, such as practical training and debate/discussion. Further studies are needed to investigate competence factors of instructors and students participating in synchronous blended learning.