Name: Cristy Silkin
EDLD 5315
Outline Assignment

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I. What is the topic of your action research?

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The topic of my action research is the Enriched Virtual Model (EVM), a hybrid learning model that combines online education with in-person learning on designated days. This model aims to address various challenges in the traditional educational system, such as overcrowding, learning disabilities, absenteeism, and student motivation, while allowing for personalized and self-paced learning.

 

II. What is the purpose of your study?

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The purpose of my study is to evaluate the effectiveness of the Enriched Virtual Model in improving student engagement, academic performance, and addressing the diverse needs of learners, particularly those with learning disabilities, in a K-12 school setting. The study will assess how the model impacts student outcomes, behavior, and motivation, and explore how it may serve as a solution to common educational challenges in Mansfield ISD.

 

III. What is your research question?

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How does the implementation of the Enriched Virtual Model influence student engagement, academic performance, and behavioral outcomes in K-12 settings, with specific attention to addressing the varied educational needs of students, including those with learning disabilities?

 

IV. What is your research design (Qualitative, Quantitative, or Mixed Methods)?

A. Why did you choose this design?

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I have chosen a Mixed Methods research design. This approach allows me to gather both qualitative data (insights from interviews, focus groups, and observations) and quantitative data (student academic performance, engagement surveys, and behavioral data). This combination will provide a more comprehensive view of how the Enriched Virtual Model affects students, teachers, and families, offering both measurable outcomes and detailed insights into their experiences with the model.

 

V. What data will you collect?

For this study, I'll collect both Qualitative Data and Quantitative Date.

1. Qualitative Data:
    

   • Interviews with teachers, students, and parents to gather insights into their experiences and perceptions of the Enriched Virtual Model.

   • Focus groups with students and teachers to discuss the benefits and challenges of the model.

   • Classroom observations to assess student engagement and behavior during both online and in-person learning sessions.​​

2. Quantitative Data:
    

   • Student surveys to measure engagement, satisfaction, and perceived effectiveness of the model.

   • Academic performance data, including grades, assessments, and test scores, to track improvements in learning outcomes.

   • Behavioral data, such as attendance, participation rates, and disciplinary actions, to examine any changes in student behavior.

 

VI. What types of measurement will you use?

To evaluate the effectiveness of the Enriched Virtual Model, I will utilize a variety of measurement tools including surveys, interviews, focus groups, observational protocols, and academic performance data.

1. Surveys/Questionnaires:
    

   • Student and teacher surveys to measure engagement, motivation, and overall satisfaction with the Enriched Virtual Model.

   • Pre- and post-assessment surveys to gauge changes in student attitudes and perceptions towards learning.​​

2. Interviews & Focus Groups:
    

   • Semi-structured interview protocols for teachers, students, and parents to gain deeper insights into their experiences with the model.​​

3. Observational Protocols:
    

   • Classroom observation checklists to assess student engagement, participation, and interactions during both in-person and online learning.​​

4. Academic Performance Metrics:
    

   • Student grades, test scores, and other academic assessments to evaluate the impact of the model on learning outcomes.

 

VII. What is the focus of your lit review?

My literature review will center on examining the Enriched Virtual Model within blended learning, with an emphasis on its effectiveness in promoting personalized learning, student engagement, behavioral outcomes, and successful implementation strategies in K-12 settings.

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1. Blended Learning:
    

   • An overview of blended learning models, with a particular focus on the Enriched Virtual Model and its application in K-12 education. This will include the potential benefits and challenges of hybrid learning models.​​

2. Personalized Learning:
    

   • The role of personalized learning in blended models, particularly how online components can be tailored to meet the individual needs of students, including those with learning disabilities.​​

3. Student Engagement and Motivation:
    

   • Research on how hybrid learning environments impact student engagement, motivation, and academic achievement.​​

4. Impact on Behavioral and Mental Health Outcomes:
    

   • An exploration of how flexible, hybrid learning models like the Enriched Virtual Model can address issues such as absenteeism, behavior problems, and mental health concerns in students.​​

5. Implementation and Effectiveness of Blended Learning:
    

   • Insights into the implementation of blended learning in schools and the strategies used to address challenges such as technology integration, teacher training, and student adaptation to new learning environments.

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References

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Aldhafeeri, F. M. (2015). Blended learning in higher education. In M. Ally & H. B. Khan (Eds.), International handbook of e-learning (Vol. 2).

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Coble, R. (2016). Learning and course management systems (LMS/CMS). Vanderbilt University.

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González-Gómez, D., et al. (2016). Performance and perception in the flipped learning model: An initial approach to evaluate the effectiveness of a new teaching methodology in a general science classroom. Journal of Science Education and Technology, 25(3), 450–459.

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Horn, M. B., & Staker, H. (2015). Blended using disruptive innovation to improve schools. Wiley.

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Lowak, S. (2024). Is blended learning the next big thing in K-12 education? University of San Diego Online Degrees.

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Schwahn, C., & McGarvey, B. (2020). Inevitable: Mass customized learning. North Charleston, SC: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform.

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Walker, T., Alvarez, B., Litvinov, A., & Long, C. (2018). 10 challenges facing public education today. National Education Association.