TEACHING EXPERIENCES SHARING AMONGST ACADEMICS IN SAUDI UNIVERSITIES: COMPUTER SCIENCE ACADEMICS' PERSPECTIVES
Newcastle University (UNITED KINGDOM)
About this paper:
Conference name: 18th International Technology, Education and Development Conference
Dates: 4-6 March, 2024
Location: Valencia, Spain
Abstract:
Background and Objectives:
The main objective of this study is to ascertain successful approaches for promoting the exchange of knowledge within institutions of higher education is Saudi Arabi, specifically addressing the distinct obstacles encountered by academics in the field of Computer Science when it comes to regularly updating their teaching methods and course materials. The primary focus of the research dwell on discovering valuable insights that might enhance the overall quality of education in computer science, consequently equipping students with the necessary skills for successful jobs in the competitive field.
Methodology:
The study employs a combination of qualitative exploratory research and quantitative survey methodology. The survey was designed to explore the viewpoints of computer science scholars concerning knowledge sharing (KS) in the context of instructional practices. The research instrument utilized in this study consisted of a questionnaire that encompassed both qualitative exploratory items and items designed to measure the psychometric qualities of the research variables. The researchers employed the simple random sample technique to ensure equal opportunity for all individuals within the population to partake in the study. A total of 119 full-time academics employed in the computer science faculty at institutions in Saudi Arabia were included in the sample. The participants had diverse academic positions and teaching backgrounds.
Results:
The results of Pearson's correlation analysis revealed significant positive correlations between attitude and teaching experience sharing (r = 0.59), expected rewards and associations and teaching experience sharing (r = 0.24), expected contributions and teaching experience sharing (r = 0.46), attitude and expected contributions (r = 0.27), and expected rewards and associations and expected contributions (r = 0.40). Additionally, there was a positive link observed between the platform and the anticipated benefits and associations, with a coefficient of 0.23. The findings derived from this survey indicate that various factors, namely attitude, anticipated incentives and associations, expected contributions, and the IT platform, play a crucial role in facilitating the practice of sharing teaching experiences among the group of academics who were included in this research. The findings from the regression analysis demonstrate a substantial relationship between individuals' attitude towards information sharing and their anticipated contributions, and academics' desire to engage in knowledge sharing activities.
Implication of the Study and Conclusion:
The research indicates that a significant number of scholars presently engage in the dissemination of knowledge through in-person interactions. The qualitative findings suggest that there is a requirement for technological solutions to enhance the exchange of teaching experiences among academics. The predominant method often referenced for facilitating impactful Knowledge Sharing involves the establishment of an interactive online platform designed specifically for the purpose of exchanging teaching experiences. The results of this study will provide valuable insights into enhancing knowledge sharing (KS) among computer science (CS) academics. Additionally, they will aid in the development of a knowledge management system that promotes the exchange of teaching experiences.Keywords:
Knowledge sharing, higher education institutions, CS Academics, Teaching experiences, attitude towards KS, expected rewards, expected contribution, IT platform.