POTENTIAL BENEFITS AND COMPLEXITIES OF BLENDED LEARNING IN HIGHER EDUCATION: The case of the University of Botswana

Blended/hybrid learning is dominating news in higher education as a training and
educational delivery method of choice. It is seen as a link between instructors, learners
and classrooms located in different places to enhance learning. Based on the interviews
with 15 faculty members and one administrator that had direct experience with this form
of delivery at the University of Botswana (UB) the findings suggested two major themes
that dominated faculty members ‘accounts: potential benefits and challenges of blended
learning. The study was guided by the Diffusion of Innovation theory.
The potential benefits of blended learning included improved pedagogy; engagement in
learning; and added flexibility in the teaching and learning to mention a few. Faculty
members perceived complexities such as lack of students‘ readiness to use the course
management system, slow network and breakdowns; lack of computers for students and
lack of time. The article concludes by suggesting future directions for blended learning
(BL) at the UB.