EXPLORING SAUDI UNIVERSITY LECTURERS' PERCEPTION OF VIRTUAL LEARNING ENVIRONMENTS IN LANGUAGE TEACHING

Abstract

Attitude toward virtual learning has gained credence in the modern era citing rapid advancement in the field of technology and the convenience it provides to students. Moreover, virtual learning is considered effective in terms of providing an inclusive and favourable environment for both teachers and students. However, Virtual Learning Environment (VLE) has been criticised for being too complex and less effective than conventional methods of teaching. Therefore, the main purpose of this study is to develop a better understanding of VLE and identify the probable benefits it can offer to both teachers and students in the Saudi Arabian English as a foreign language (EFL) context. For this purpose, the study has adopted a qualitative research design to collect data and analyse it using a thematic analysis technique. The findings and their subsequent discussion indicate that despite inherent challenges with the use of VLE, most of the study’s participants perceive it effective and reliable for both teachers and students in the Saudi EFL context.