Moving from Face to Face to Virtual Learning Using Blackboard: Faculty and Students’ Perceptions

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic led to the suspension of all institutional educational activities in Saudi Arabia, resulting in an abrupt move from traditional face-to-face learning to online learning. This study investigates how online learning using Blackboard in medical colleges is changing the learning methods after COVID-19 in Saudi Arabia. It seeks to explore the faculty and students' perceptions regarding the move and the effectiveness of online learning through the e-learning platform “Blackboard” at Fakeeh College for Medical Sciences (FCMS). A quantitative study was conducted to a sample of 419 participants, comprising faculty staff members and students. The selection criteria were students from first year to the final year in their second semester using online learning. They answered the questionnaires online through the Blackboard, and all information was collected for analysis and interpretation. The results indicated challenges experienced, time management, and preferences. Most faculty and students in medical colleges preferred online learning through Blackboard as it presents the future of medical education. However, online learning through Blackboard should be monitored and continuously evaluated to eliminate the current challenges and ensure effectiveness in the teaching and learning processes.  This study recognizes the importance of technology in enhancing teaching and learning in medical education curricula.