Multimedia and E-learning Integration in the FFS Gulf College Classrooms

Abstract

Multimedia technology and e-learning resources have become prevalent and accessible to all students who in their creative and innovative ways make learning opportunities more engaging and relevant. These electronic resources have also played vital roles in learning English as a Foreign Language (EFL). As these technologies create impact among the Faculty of Foundation Studies (FFS) Gulf College students in EFL classrooms, this study was conducted to find out their perceptions of multimedia and e-learning utilized in the classrooms. A duly-validated researcher made] questionnaire-checklist was utilized as the research tool. Focused group discussion and semi-structured interviews were used to corroborate obtained data. Results revealed that the Gulf College students “sometimes utilized†multimedia and e-learning in learning English. The popular computer/laptop/netbook and internet were among the top-rated multimedia and e-learning resources in terms of use. The students have not realized yet the impact of other multimedia resources and e-learning services on learning the English language. Students perceived multimedia technology and e-learning facilities as highly effective in facilitating English language acquisition. Furthermore, there was a significant relationship between the extent of integration and utilization and the level of,effectiveness of multimedia and e-learning resources. The participants liked to see Ipads, laptops, cell phones, videos, e-books and Smart Boards being used as learning tools in the future.

 

Keywords: Multimedia, E-learning, Integration, FFS classrooms, English as a Foreign Language

(EFL).