Education experts explore blended learning strategies

MUSCAT: Educational policy experts from member states of the Arab Bureau of Education for the Gulf States (ABEGS) commenced a series of meetings in Muscat on Monday to discuss the concept of blended learning, its significance, and its potential role in advancing education systems across the Gulf region. The regional gathering, organized by the Arab Center for Educational Research for the Gulf States (ACERG), focuses on developing modern educational frameworks that align with rapid technological advancements.

Speaking at the opening session, Hamad Al-Sarhani, Advisor to the Omani Minister of Education for Educational Administration Affairs, highlighted the importance of embracing new learning models in response to ongoing digital transformation. “We are living in a time of profound digital change, which calls for the creation of innovative educational systems that reflect this transformation,” Al-Sarhani said. “One of the most notable models is blended learning, which combines the strengths of both in-person and e-learning methodologies.”

Al-Sarhani noted that the meetings aim to build participants’ capacities in designing and implementing effective blended learning strategies. He expressed appreciation to ACERG for its continued support of educational development in Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries. Director of the Arab Center for Educational Research, Dr Mohammed Al-Sharika, also addressed the gathering, describing blended learning as a practical and effective solution to contemporary educational challenges.

“Blended learning helps improve access to knowledge, supports self-learning, and promotes the integration of technology in education,” Al-Sharika said, while praising the Omani Ministry of Education for hosting the event and acknowledging the active participation of education ministries from ABEGS member states.

Al-Sharika reviewed several initiatives led by the Center aimed at incorporating technology into educational systems and enhancing blended learning practices throughout the region. The three-day event includes nine sessions dedicated to examining the outcomes of ACERG’s blended learning programs. Discussions will cover key concepts, the rationale for adopting blended learning in Gulf education systems, and the design of blended learning environments—encompassing instructional methods, digital tools, and educational content.

Attending the meetings are specialists in education policy, curriculum development, and educational supervision from the ministries of education in ABEGS member states. Headquartered in Kuwait, ACERG was established following a resolution of the Second General Conference of Ministers of Education in the Arab Gulf States, held in Riyadh in May 1977. As one of ABEGS’ affiliated institutions, the Center is dedicated to promoting scientific research, educational assessment, and the advancement of education across its member countries—namely the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Yemen, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Qatar. — KUNA