(2037.pdf) THE OWNERSHIP, USAGE AND PERCEPTION OF INFORMATION AND COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES (ICTS) AMONG FACULTY, STUDENTS AND STAFF: A STUDY OF A WOMEN'S UNIVERSITY IN SAUDI ARABIA

摘要

The exploratory research study was undertaken as part of an ongoing investigation into theownership, actual usage, and perception toward Information and Communications Technologies(ICTs) as an effective tool for learning and teaching, digital proficiency, perception of trainingneeds, and preferred mode of training among faculty, students and staff of a private women'suniversity in Saudi Arabia. The researchers were also curious to explore the existence of certain“learning ecologies” set in the unique socio-cultural milieu of Saudi Arabia, especially vis-à-viswomen. A fully mixed sequential equal status research design was used for the study. Whereasno significant difference was found among the groups related to the significance of usage oftechnology in teaching and learning, however, the group differences were significant regarding theusage and perception of social media, and creation and participation in learning ecologies.Qualitative data analysis has revealed some interesting themes like eagerness among faculty toadopt technology, albeit with some psycho-socio-cultural concerns and apprehensions related tothe usage of social media, as well as the complexities of integrating technology into teaching. Thestudents' themes revolved around the significance of ICTs in many aspects including teaching andlearning, awareness and keenness to make sound use of the affordances of these technologies,and certain degree of discontent regarding the lack of desired digital proficiency among faculty andstaff.