A Thematic Review of Blended Learning in Higher Education

This article reviews the international literature on blended learning in view of establishing its thematic trends in higher education. The systematic review through PRISMA, sought to answer three research questions: First, how have publications evolved from 2000 to 2016 in blended learning in higher education? Secondly, what themes are frequently published in blended learning since 2000 to 2016? Thirdly, what are the emerging sub-themes in the blended learning publications in higher education? A thematic result is presented indicating major trends (in order of frequency: highest to lowest) in the Instructional design, Disposition, Exploration, Learner Outcomes, Comparison, Technology, Interactions, Professional Development, Demographic, and Others. The authors are of the view that this article contributes to the understanding and knowledge of the current research trends in blended learning and ascertains that much has to be done in terms of Blended Learning frameworks.