The role of the family in the E-learning system (challenges and suggested solutions)

Abstract
The study aimed to identify the role of the family plays in e- learning framework, discuss the most prominent challenges the family faces during the process of enabling its children to effectively access e- learning, and to provide some solutions in light of schools’ closure due to the Corona pandemic (COVID19). The study applied the descriptive approach, and the study sample consisted of (45) parents in the Sultanate of Oman, who were randomly selected. In order to achieve the aim of the study, the researchers used a parent interview card. The study revealed that there is a variety of roles parents and families play in this type of learning, including: Providing the necessities of e- learning and distance learning, such as devices and internet service, creating the suitable environment for learning, following up their kids’ homework, continuous follow-up and understanding challenges, creating solutions, and Resolving technical problems and issues that may arise.It’s worth mentioning here that the family faces several challenges in applying e- learning at home. These challenges include the poor condition of Internet network and the financial demands such as: providing devices for more than one student in the family. Parents also struggle to provide a place that is specially prepared for each student. Besides, the lack of time as parents are busy with other responsibilities and the difficulty of following up more than one student in the family. The study members provided a number of suggestions to overcome the challenges facing the family in applying e-learning at home. These suggestions include the following: downloading the explained lessons in students’ devices, training parents and students on how to use the educational platforms and implementing a cooperation between the Ministry of Education and the community institutions to support families in providing the necessities of e-learning. Based on the results found, the study highly recommended educating parents and raising their awareness about their roles in the e- learning framework. The study also suggested providing training workshops for parents and students on how to use the educational platforms. In addition to the importance of enhancing the network infrastructure to facilitate access to the Internet.