King Abdulaziz University

Jeddah Community College (JCC)

Continuous Professional Development Committee
14.02.2019

Effectiveness of ‘Blackboard’: Critical Analysis of Need, Implementation and

Challenges
Dr. Intakhab Alam Khan
intakhabakhan@yahoo.co.uk
Abstract
Blackboard Learn (previously the Blackboard Learning Management System) is a virtual learning environment and
course management system developed by Blackboard Inc. Blackboard Learn is an application for online teaching,
learning and knowledge sharing. It can enhance one-on-one virtual & academic relationship with students by
allowing you to provide handouts, course materials, syllabus, study tools (quizzes, sample tests), and discussion
threads online.
The aim of this presentation is to explore the effectiveness of Blackboard integration in the development of
academic achievement, learning skills, self-confidence & motivation among the students. In addition, teachers’ and
learners’ readiness and attitudes are also looked into. Al-Kandri (2013) aimed to identify the impact of using e-
activities in BB based learning on the academic achievement and motivation in a course in the College of Education
at Kuwait University. Results showed statistically significant differences between the average scores of the two
groups in the academic achievement test in favor of the experimental group but on motivation. Following were the
research questions:
1) What is the effectiveness of Blackboard in the development of academic achievement?
2) What is the level of preparedness among teachers and learners?
3) What is the effect of Blackboard on motivation and self-confidence among the students?

Based on the secondary data and interviews with the teachers-users conducted by the presenter, it was found that
BB is a wonderful platform, but it has some limitations related to accessibility-usability, courses and levels of the
learners. Thus, the case of JCC is important to be looked into.
The findings are in the line with the findings of Kim & Seo (2009) who stated that LMS-BB tools such as Chat,
discussions and Wikis have proved to be more problematic for the users. BB as a distance learning tool also has
some challenges observed by Suad (2016) while he conducted a study at Taiba University. The main issues found
were:
a) Teachers have difficulty with creating quizzes/tests/exams.
b) A major bottleneck was the slow/sluggish internet connection.
Recommendations
There is a need to conduct an experimental study to see the statistically significant differences between a class
taught by BB and a traditional method. There is also a need to explore the best options to integrate BB. In addition
to the training of faculty and students, time management can be enforced.
Keywords
Blackboard learn, Blackboard integration, virtual learning environment, academic achievement, attitudes