The Blackboard Learning Management System in the Preparatory Year: Perceptions of EFL Students

Abstract

<p> This research was carried out at Dammam University's Preparatory Year and Supporting Studies Deanship during the second semester of the academic year 2020-2021. The population included both genders with different levels of English proficiency (Tables No. 1 and No. 2). A random process was used to choose the samples. A total of 255 students were selected from a total population of 756. The Sample Size Calculator (https://www.surveysystem.com/sscalc.htm), a public service of Creative Research Systems survey software, was used to establish the size of the sample that represents the target population of students. Students' perceptions of learning and teaching processes via Blackboard were among the variables used to create the samples. In the preparatory year, 255 students from the scientific, engineering, and health tracks responded to the survey, out of a total population of 756 at the 95 percent confidence level. Quantitative data was collected using mostly closed questions in the same previous questionnaire for students of both genders. The participants' basic personal data was collected in the first section (Students’ gender, track, and level of English proficiency). A five-point Likert scale was used to measure differences in opinions about the Blackboard experience in the other sections of the questionnaire (Not at all Effective/Strongly disagree, Slightly Effective/Disagree, Moderately Effective/Neutral, Very Effective/Agree, Extremely Effective/Strongly agree). The final section included open-ended questions designed to elicit further recommendations from both sets of participants regarding problems. The averages were calculated using statistical operations on the collected data for the analysis </p>