Exploring the Factors Influencing Students Interaction During COVID 19 in the Faculty of Language Studies at Sohar University: A Qualitative Case Study

Abstract

This study aimed at investigating the factors influencing interaction in the Faculty of Language Studies at Sohar University. The sample of this study was selective. It included all students who study translation in level two in the Faculty of Language Studies in the academic year 2021/2022. The researcher applied instruments which were focus group interviews via interviewing students and recording videos, individual interviews. In addition, the researcher measured all types of validity, descriptive, interpretative, theoretical and evaluation. 
 Furthermore, the reliability of the study was confirmed by repeating interviews several times and the reseracher used ATLAS to analyse collected data. The results revealed that there are different factors influencing interaction which are class size, teaching experiences, skills, methods and various psychological issues. Regarding the factors which are influencing students’ interaction, the results support the presumed Constructivism Theory so, it recommends improving online teaching and providing students with all their needs as this will lead to better class interaction during Covid 19. The study recommends providing the lecturers with training; for example, providing the lecturers at Sohar University with adequate professional trainings and professional development sessions that consolidate and improve their online teaching skillsto expand their experiences during this crisis and for future sudden changes in learning. In addition, the study recommended to cover all students’ needs by conducting intensive advising sessions that support the students’ interaction, psychology and perspectives of realizing things that are surrounding them in the classrooms’ atmosphere.