Modern Trends in e-learning Tools and Technologies in Education with the Use of Blackboard

Abstract

The 21st century society requires a flexible learning environment. The learning environment should be capable of adapting to teaching goals, learning objectives, students' capabilities, students' preference for information and the latest communication technology and services. In the past few decades, several e-learning tools have been developed and used in educational systems. These e-learning tools have turned out to be a great resource in providing education or training to students with diverse cultural backgrounds and educational levels. However, there remains a research gap in understanding the modern e-learning tools and their ability to reach educational goals. Failure to understand the actual capabilities of e-learning or expecting too much from e-learning tools and technology can result in a failure to educate or train students effectively. 
 The purpose of this research paper is to review the trends and tools used for e-learning, with a focus on the capabilities of Blackboard in providing effective education. It will discuss the positives and negatives of using e-learning to educate students. This experimental study covers Blackboard as an e-learning tool aiming to investigate its usefulness and ease of use as reported by student users. It will also study the possibility of using Blackboard to create and support a collaborative learning environment. 
 The impact of using Blackboard as a language teaching and learning tool in Gulf Universities has gained attention in the recent years due to the impact it can carry on the achievement and performance of learning a foreign language. The research analysis provides us with a view of the current and future tendencies of e-learning tools, specifically Blackboard, and helps provide substantive understanding of e-learning tools used in the classroom. Results of the study indicated that the students found Blackboard to be a useful tool for obtaining class materials, submitting homework and assignments, taking quizzes and tests, and preparing a project. Additionally, its accessibility and adaptability proved it to be helpful, easy-to-use, and effective in increasing productivity. The study shows that students' experience with the tool has resulted in a perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness. 
 Similarly, Blackboard was found to be effective in reaching the teaching goals set by an institute. However, Blackboard's lack of a social network results in the lack of a collaborative environment for students and teachers alike. E-learning is also dependent on cloud computing to synch information among all electronic devices to provide training and professional development opportunities.