A Case Study of Cultivating Psychological Safety in an Adult Blended Learning Cohort

This chapter examines how psychological safety is cultivated in a cohort-based blended learning graduate program for adult learners. Through a case study of a master's degree program at a college of education, the author explores how faculty vulnerability, consensus-building, and relational pedagogy foster trust, emotional openness, and community. Mixed-methods data from 39 participants reveal that the blended format—combining online and in-person engagement—supports both flexibility and deep connection. Findings highlight the transformative impact of vulnerable discourse and intentional instructional design on learner engagement, persistence, and growth.