Implementing e-learning Maturity Model at Al-Quds Open University in Palestine

Abstract

Al-Quds Open University (QOU) is one of the leading organizations in the Arab countries in the blended and open learning models. The University has proved its leading role over 30 years of serving Palestine through more than 120 thousand graduates from its programs. The University has played a leading role in Palestine in adapting the e-learning component of the blended model for 14 years. In this research, we worked on implementing the e-learning Maturity Model (eMM) on the electronic component of the blended learning of al-Quds Open University. All the dimensions of the e-learning Maturity Model were considered and visited, and it was found to be applicable in most of its aspects of e-learning at QOU. The dimensions provided by the eMM were covered in this research as delivery, planning management, and optimization. The process followed in dealing with the model aspects was conducted through the standard recommendations of the eMM. The research also discussed the methodology of conducting the eMM process, which depended on partitioning the questionnaire according to the stakeholders within the University. The stakeholders were considered in terms of their functional tasks within their organizational units. The participants then were questioned accordingly, considering the standard questionnaire points. Then the answers were reflected to form the case implantation for al-Quds Open University. Recommendations are made according to the organizational gaps found, and suggestions are made to catch up with the gaps reflected from the eMM. The model implantation reflected extreme organizational issues related to pedagogies, organizational units, documenting core course creations, implementation procedures, tutors, and student support. In addition, the University demonstrated a very reliable, mature e-learning infrastructure and technical capabilities. The main shortcomings were found in issues related to the need to establish stand-alone strategic planning for e-learning and the need to increase procedures documentation and workflows to exceed the core of e-learning processes to cover all aspects of e-learning.