Towards an Efficient Integrated Distance and Blended Learning Model: How to Minimize the Impact of COVID-19 on Education

Abstract

As governments and international bodies worldwide sought to prevent the spread of Covid-19, underdeveloped countries have been particularly challenged as they have little or no technological models and frameworks in place and the literature offers little guidance. The current research applied a quantitative approach to researching educational practitioners’ perceptions of e-learning acceptance, using a sample of 4,024 educators and students from a range of Kuwaiti educational institutions. Findings indicate that respondents were slightly supportive of e-learning adoption, with a majority acknowledging its advantages. However, respondents also mention the need for development in the technological competencies required to operate the proposed e-learning programs and a range of challenges that may impact e-learning. Hence, the authors propose a distance and blended learning model (DBLM) to enhance the implementation, utilisation, and evaluation of e-learning within the Kuwaiti educational system. Also, an e-learning teacher capability maturity model (eTCMM) was proposed to foster educators’ competencies and enable their active use of e-learning platforms.