TEACHER CHARACTERISTICS AND INSTRUCTIONAL METHODS WITH STANDARDIZED CURRICULUM

Hasan Çakır
Gazi University

Abstract

Blended learning environments defined as teaching and learning materials delivered over the Internet and implemented in the classroom with live teachers have recently found their place in literature. However, literature has gaps on characteristics and classroom practices of teachers in blended learning environments. The purpose of this study is to understand the teacher qualities and teaching practices in a blended learning environment with standards-based curriculum. In this study, teacher characteristics and classroom practices were investigated in Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) program which is a technical education program, giving certifications on computer networks. Results show that although teachers have different professional and educational backgrounds, they use very similar teaching methods in the blended learning environment with standardized curriculum. These types of learning environments have potential to increase student achievement and promote equal educational opportunity for all students.

Keywords

Blended learning environments, instructional methods, teacher characteristics, standardized curriculum.