Blended learning in Commonwealth countries: a comparative analysis of implementation and impact

This study offers a comparative analysis of blended learning implementation across Commonwealth countries, supported by the Commonwealth of Learning. Utilising baseline and impact reports from 2017 to 2023 from eight countries, the research examines varying implementation approaches, key success factors, impacts on learning outcomes and teaching practices, and common challenges. The findings highlight significant differences in national strategies, from top-down policy-driven methods to decentralised, institution-led initiatives. Success factors include technological infrastructure, government support, digital literacy, institutional policies, and cultural contextualisation. Impacts on student outcomes varied by discipline, with science courses often benefiting more from blended formats. Teaching practices have evolved to include more interactive and diverse assessment methods. Common challenges encompassed connectivity, faculty adaptation, quality assurance, and digital equity issues. The study concludes with recommendations for context-specific strategies, infrastructure development, comprehensive digital literacy programmes, institutional support structures, cross-institutional collaboration, and culturally relevant content. This study contributes to the literature by offering a nuanced understanding of blended learning in developing contexts and providing evidence-based recommendations for policymakers and practitioners in the Commonwealth.