Teaching and Learning with Technology

Transform Teaching: Faculty BlendLT program applications open through April 28

The image features a logo with the text "BlendLT" prominently displayed, which stands for Blended Learning Transformation. The design symbolizes the integration of technology and traditional learning methods, with a laptop and an open book illustrated side by side within a circle. Rays emanate from the point where the book and laptop meet, suggesting the enlightening fusion of these elements in educational transformation.  Credit: Marilyn Goodrich, Instructional Designer, Teaching and Learning with TechnologyAll Rights Reserved.

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Penn State’s Teaching and Learning with Technology (TLT) and IT Learning and Development are accepting applications for its next Blended Learning Transformation (BlendLT) workshop series. BlendLT is open to faculty, instructors and lecturers from all Penn State campuses who are interested in learning how to incorporate remote and online teaching experiences and various technology tools into face-to-face courses. 

The BlendLT Program has been accepted into Penn State's Provost Endorsement Program focusing on Domain 1: Teaching and Outreach. Faculty engaging in BlendLT will not only benefit from its enriching curriculum but also earn distinguished recognition on their transcripts, underscoring their commitment to excellence in teaching and enhancing their standing during promotion and tenure evaluations.

Participants selected for the program will work toward redesigning one of their courses into a blended/hybrid format to launch in fall 2024 or spring 2025. During the five-day blended/hybrid learning program, participants will engage in an intensive exploration of creating effective blended/hybrid courses and leveraging technology tools to enhance student engagement. Along with outside preparation and follow-up work, participants will attend one daylong, face-to-face session and four synchronous online sessions.

Throughout the program, faculty members will delve into teaching strategies for integrating online and face-to-face components, as well as understanding the nuances of blended/hybrid learning environments. Participants will learn to design course structures that optimize both synchronous and asynchronous learning experiences, fostering active participation and collaboration among students. 

Additionally, faculty will learn about a variety of Penn State-approved technology tools, enabling them to deliver dynamic and interactive content, facilitate discussions and assess student progress effectively. By the end of BlendLT, participants will emerge equipped with the knowledge, skills and confidence to develop and deliver engaging blended/hybrid courses that meet the diverse needs of today's learners.

The online application is open through Sunday, April 28. Those who are selected will be notified by Tuesday, April 30, and the workshop series will begin on Tuesday, May 21.

For more information on BlendLT or the workshop series, contact Marilyn Goodrich at mag313@psu.edu.

Last Updated April 16, 2024