Towards E-Learning in Higher Education in Libya

Abstract

The growing influence of technologies on all aspects of life, including the education sector, requires developing countries to follow the example of the developed countries and adopt technology in their education systems. Although relatively late, the Libyan government has eventually responded to this challenge and started investing heavily in the reconstruction of its education system, and initiating national programs to introduce information and communication technology (ICT) into education. In addition, there are plans to establish virtual campuses in many universities and colleges to provide an advanced platform for learners and instructors. This paper presents the higher education context in Libya and outlines the applications of ICT and e-learning in Libyan higher education to date. It discusses the issues that need be considered and addressed in adopting ICT in the learning and teaching processes including technological infrastructure, curriculum development, cultural and language aspects, and management support. The paper also outlines the prospects for the integration of e-learning into Libyan higher education and concludes with proposing an integrated approach to advancing the introduction of e-learning in Libya.