Continuing professional development for RMIT International University Vietnam library staff: Adding value through an international partnership: A case study

摘要

The aim of this study was to explore the effectiveness of blended learning - the fusion of face-to-face and online learning experiences - to implement an effective and culturally sensitive program of professional development in an Australian university working in a developing country. It sought insight into pertinent pedagogical approaches for staff development across multiple locations including across national boundaries. The project demonstrated how learners can develop new capabilities and approaches by building on existing skills and knowledge as they interact in communities of practice. The immediate purpose was to design and deliver a continuing professional education program to meet the needs of librarians working at RMIT International University Vietnam in the context of the demands of the academic community and in the light of the challenge library staff experienced in seeking to meet explicit and tacit expectations. The project ran from late January to mid December 2010. The research questions were: 'Is blended learning effective as an approach to continuing professional development when working across cultures in a multinational organization?' and 'What contribution do face-to-face and online components make to learning outcomes?' The methodology used was an action learning approach. A 2009 consultant's report into the RMIT Vietnam Library established professional developmental needs which were further detailed in February 2010 by the project leader from RMIT University, Melbourne using a skills audit. Workshops in Vietnam, visits to Melbourne by several Vietnam staff members, and an online forum were then delivered.