The challenges of distance education in the Sultanate of Oman in light of the Corona pandemic (Covid-19)

Abstract

            This study aimed to investigate the challenges of Remote Learning during the COVID-19 Pandemic from the teachers’ perspective in the Sultanate of Oman. The descriptive-analytical approach has been used in this study. The data was collected using a questionnaire. The study sample consisted of 390 male teachers and 1231 female teachers to reach (1621) male and female teachers who have been chosen randomly. The study came up with a number of results: the most remarkable of which is that remote learning was suddenly applied without the concerned parties of the educational process (the Ministry, schools, teachers, students, and parents) being ready for its application, in addition to the challenges of the information technology and communication infrastructure, such as poor internet networks and poor teachers’ training. Besides, the non-availability of the internet and computers for some students resulted in non-equivalent education opportunities for all students. Based on the study results, the study recommended the necessity of collaboration between the Ministry of Education, Telecommunications Regulatory Authority, and telecommunication companies to provide the information technology and communication requirements for the educational sector and training the teacher on the remote learning methods and strategies.