Title: Applicability of virtual collaborative learning environment in Saudi Arabian Universities

Authors: Heba Mohammad; Ayham Fayyoumi; Waleed Rashideh; Riyad Almakki

Addresses: Faculty of Computer and Information Science, Information System Department, Al Imam Mohammad ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh 11432, KSA ' PwC Advisory – Government Consulting, Riyadh, KSA ' Faculty of Computer and Information Science, Information System Department, Al Imam Mohammad ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh 11432, KSA ' Faculty of Computer and Information Science, Information System Department, Al Imam Mohammad ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU), Riyadh 11432, KSA

Abstract: The creation of a collaborative learning environment necessitates learners to learn together. Collaborative learning becomes influential when it occurs from the perspective of communities of practice. This study aims to provide an instrument that can measure the extent to which learning practices in a country are consistent with Wenger's model of communities of practice based on student perspective. This study emphasises the applicability of creating a virtual collaborative learning environment in Saudi Arabian universities. Data were collected through web-based questionnaires distributed to undergraduate students at Al Imam Mohammad ibn Saud Islamic University (IMSIU).

Keywords: social learning; virtual learning communities; virtual learning environments; VLEs; collaborative learning; Saudi Arabia; higher education; universities; communities of practice; student perspectives.

DOI: 10.1504/IJKL.2015.073459

International Journal of Knowledge and Learning, 2015 Vol.10 No.3, pp.223 - 237

Received: 16 Sep 2014
Accepted: 28 Apr 2015

Published online: 09 Dec 2015 *

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