Prof Amanda du Preez, who teaches Visual Culture Studies in the Department of Visual Arts, delivered a lecture on blended learning during the Flexible Futures: Shaping E-Learning for Higher Education conference, which was held at the Royal Elephant Hotel on 26 January 2015. The international conference provided an opportunity for staff of the University of Pretoria to discuss and assess models of blended teaching and learning suited for research-intensive universities, particularly in an era of rapid technological innovation. By sharing the integrated learning strategies followed in Visual Culture Studies, Prof du Preez effectively explained that blended modules often prove very fruitful.

In her discussion, Teaching digital culture to ‘digital natives’, Prof du Preez demonstrated how Visual Culture Studies class sessions are combined with the use of CD-Rom, online content made available via clickUP, blogging, creating websites and wikis, e-mail, live chat, videos and film. These blended modes of teaching are effective as they relate directly to the content of the module, namely, virtual spaces. The key themes of the modules include the virtual and the digital realm and therefore the students are immersed in the subject matter. In other words, form and content enhance each other.  Prof du Preez also addressed the manner in which blended learning is presented depending on the size of classes. The choice of blends differs according to the student numbers. The larger group is taught by online study material and readings, with lectures and in class discussions, screening of films, followed by short online assignments. The smaller postgraduate group allows for one-to-one discussions, live chats, group activities, blogging and sharing of research activities. Finally, Prof du Preez also highlighted the role that socio-economic status plays in the effectiveness of combining technology and education.

Prof Cheryl de la Rey, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of the University of Pretoria, explains that “teaching and learning is the lifeblood if any university” and by participating in opportunities like the Flexible Futures conference the future of the teaching model at UP can grow exceptionally. Prof du Preez’s contribution to the event was very well received and has certainly added much value to the concept of blended learning.

For further information please contact the Visual Arts department at (012) 420 2353