ERIC Number: EJ1117462
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2016-Sep
Pages: 21
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: EISSN-1492-3831
EISSN: N/A
Barriers and Opportunities of e-Learning Implementation in Iraq: A Case of Public Universities
Al-Azawei, Ahmed; Parslow, Patrick; Lundqvist, Karsten
International Review of Research in Open and Distributed Learning, v17 n5 p126-146 Sep 2016
Although the implementation of e-learning initiatives has reached advanced stages in developed countries, it is still in its infancy in many developing nations and the Middle East in particular. Recently, few public universities in Iraq have initiated limited attempts to use e-learning alongside traditional classrooms. However, different obstacles are preventing successful adoption of this technology. The present research aimed to highlight challenges that hinder effective implementation of e-learning in Iraq and recommend possible solutions to tackle them. A total of 108 respondents voluntarily participated in this research. They consisted of academic staff (N=74), professors in charge of e-learning (N=3), and undergraduate students (N=31). Three methods were used to collect data: a survey instrument, semi-structured interviews, and focus groups. Data was then analyzed and reported quantitatively and qualitatively. This provided in-depth understanding to the current status of e-learning in public Iraqi universities and highlighted major hindrances of its successful application. Based on this analysis, the study proffered many recommendations that should be considered in order to fully benefit from e-learning technologies.
Descriptors: Barriers, Educational Opportunities, Electronic Learning, Program Implementation, Public Colleges, Universities, Foreign Countries, Developing Nations, Blended Learning, Technology Uses in Education, Adoption (Ideas), College Faculty, Undergraduate Students, Data Collection, Surveys, Semi Structured Interviews, Focus Groups, Data Analysis, Educational Technology
Athabasca University. 1200, 10011 - 109 Street, Edmonton, AB T5J 3S8, Canada. Tel: 780-421-2536; Fax: 780-497-3416; e-mail: irrodl@athabascau.ca; Web site: http://www.irrodl.org
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: Iraq
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A