Abstract
The research project is a case study focussing on the use of a virtual learning environment (VLE) implemented to increase the use of information and communication technology (ICT) by university teachers in Jazan University, Saudi Arabia. The study aims to investigate the effect of the VLE as the vehicle for a training course in ICT designed to improve the university teachers' ability to use ICT in their teaching through continuing professional development (CPD) programmes.
The raison d'etre of the study is that most university teachers do not use ICT in their teaching [1]. The training programme is delivered through a VLE course (based on Moodle), and so places the teachers in the position of learners and draws their attention to the benefits that can be gained by using ICT in their teaching. The study addresses the following question: can a VLE affect the use of ICT by teachers to support their teaching? Two questionnaires were used as data collection methods, a pretest and post-test adopted before and after the implementation of the VLE.
The analysis of the results of the study reveals that there are differences between the pre-test and the post-test, for the benefit of the post-test. The mean of the university teachers' ICT usage in the pre-test is 1.94 and for the post-test is 2.59. The study recommends that the university policy makers should support the use of a VLE in the CPD provision and to create more ICT training programmes. Finally, the policy makers should consider some training programmes for the students to support and enhance their competence in using ICT for the purpose of learning.