The Degree of Contribution of E-Learning Management Systems (Blackboard) to Developing Independent Learning Skills among University Students

Abstract

The study aimed to identify the degree of contribution of the the e-learning management system (Blackboard) to developing autonomous learning skills among undergraduate Islamic studies students. To achieve this, the researchers employed a descriptive survey approach. The study determined 27 autonomous learning skills essential for undergraduate students, and a questionnaire was designed based on three constructs: planning and organization skills, mental and cognitive skills, and self-evaluation skills. The study included 247 male and female students from the Islamic studies departments at Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University. The findings revealed that the participants believed that the e-learning management system (Blackboard) helps in developing planning and organization skills as well as mental and cognitive skills, but they were neutral about its impact on self-evaluation skills. Consequently, the study recommended prioritizing autonomous learning skills, working to introduce them to learners as it is one of the modern trends in education, enhancing its use in e-learning, and leveraging the potential of the e-learning management system (Blackboard) to enhance autonomous learning skills. It also suggested establishing training programs to equip learners with self-evaluation skills through the e-learning management system (Blackboard).