TAGUCB Develops a Conceptual Model of Factors Affecting Social Media Networking Usage in E-Learning

TAGUCB Develops a Conceptual Model of Factors Affecting Social Media Networking Usage in E-Learning

MANAMA- Talal Abu-Ghazaleh University College of Business (TAGUCB)in Bahrain has developed a new conceptual model of factors affecting Social Media Networking usage to enhance e-Learning at the University.  This model aims to aid educators to develop online courses for students, and for TAGUCB to utilize a Moodle-based e-learning management system.

The conceptual model proposed by TAGUCB is currently undergoing assessments with the participation of both TAGUCB educators and studentsin exploring new ways to implement social networkingas a learning platform.

Logistics Department Coordinator at TAGUCB, Mr. Mohammed Al-Barghouthi indicated, “E-Learning has made it necessary for educational institutions, including TAGUCB, to consider utilizing social media as a tool for promoting learning and knowledge creation.” He also indicated, “E-learning platforms can enhance student performance through encouraging more student engagement, increased discussion, as part of the learning process.”

The background behind the TAGUCB study is tohighlight the importance of social networking in stimulating online learning, encouraging students to constructively participate in the learning process in contrast to the traditional, teacher-centric method.

Of the challenges revolving around this conceptual model; E-Learning has not been fully implemented in Bahrain due to difficulty of IT acceptance – which entails several factors including lack of top management support, the norm of utilizing technology in the classroom environment, user computer self-efficacy, information literacy, and computer experience.

TAGUCB aims to reflect the positive effects and usage of social media networking in e-Learning, which will in turn help break barriers to existing challenges in implementation of e-Learning systems to support education.