The Feasibility of Utilizing Virtual Classroom Technology in Public Schools: Perspectives of Educational Supervisors in Riyadh Region

Abstract

The integration of virtual classroom technology in public schools has gained increasing attention as a tool for enhancing the educational process. This study investigates the perspectives of educational supervisors in Riyadh regarding the importance of virtual classrooms, the requirements for their effective implementation, and the challenges hindering their adoption. The study aims to assess the perceived importance of virtual classroom technology in public schools, identify the essential requirements for its successful use, and explore the challenges that limit its utilization. A descriptive study design was employed, utilizing a questionnaire as the primary data collection tool. The study sample consisted of 118 educational supervisors from the Riyadh region, randomly selected during the 2015 academic year. Data were analyzed to determine the levels of importance, requirements, and challenges associated with virtual classroom technology. The findings revealed that 91% of educational supervisors rated the importance of using virtual classroom technology as very high, indicating widespread recognition of its potential benefits. Additionally, 89% of respondents highlighted the need for essential requirements, such as adequate training and resource allocation, for effective implementation. Despite these positive perspectives, 85% of participants identified significant challenges, including a lack of sufficient awareness among students regarding the value of virtual classroom technology (reported by 78% of respondents). Moreover, 73% expressed concerns about insufficient confidence in students independently completing virtual tasks, and 70% highlighted negative attitudes toward technology use in general and virtual classrooms specifically. The findings highlight the critical importance of virtual classrooms in public education, alongside significant barriers to their implementation. Recommendations include leveraging research and projects on modern educational technologies, developing comprehensive plans for optimal resource utilization, and allocating budgets for training programs to enhance the adoption of virtual classroom technology.

Keywords: Virtual Classroom Technology, Educational; upervisors, Public Schools, Implementation Challenges, Technology in Education

DOI: 10.7176/JEP/16-1-06

Publication date: January 30th 2025