Miscibility in blended approaches to PETE practice

Abstract

In this paper, we discuss findings from a collaborative self-study we conducted on enacting a blended approach (i.e. consisting of online and in-person components) to a Physical Education Teacher Education (PETE) course. Data consisted of reflective journals and recorded conversations. We examine assumptions about the structure, content, and pedagogies of “blended” approaches using the metaphor of miscibility, where liquids mix to form a homogeneous solution. The blended PETE course was not conceptualized or enacted in a way that made it miscible (i.e. it was immiscible), in that the in-person and online components were viewed as separate entities. This meant there were missed opportunities to offer formative experiences from one format to shape experiences in the other. Following the pandemic it will be important to consider the strengths of both in-person and online formats so that students experience the ways one can benefit the other.