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A blended learning approach using MOOCs in higher education

Abstract:

Nowadays, online education is an active part of the education system in most countries of the world and there is an increasing awareness of the benefits of using the blended learning approach in face-to-face classroom situations. This paper presents an educational experience that applied the blended learning approach to the subject Geographic Information Systems (GIS) via Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) in the Escuela Politécnica Nacional of Ecuador. The goals of this experience were to help students to have a better understanding of geographic information and to improve the involvement and interaction between the class and the teacher to improve face-to-face interaction in the classroom. The study was validated with pilot and real tests in two consecutive courses. The results showed that the implementation of the blended learning approach improved the learning of the students. In addition, these results provide guidelines for future versions of the blended learning approach in GIS subject.