Perceptions of Syrian Student Refugees towards Blended Learning: Implications for Higher Education Institutions

Abstract

This study investigates the Syrian refugees ' perceptions of blended learning (BL) at Arab Open University in Jordan as well as the effects of age and gender on participants' perceptions. A questionnaire was used to collect data from 93 Syrian refugees. Results revealed that the Syrian refugees have positive perceptions of the BL approach, and they are satisfied with it as it plays a transformative role in achieving their academic goals without negatively affecting their work and family affairs. Results also revealed there were no significant differences in participants' perceptions of BL attributed to gender, but age had a significance differences, that is, older participants view BL favorably. The current study also investigated the challenges that refugees face when experiencing BL. Based on the results, it is recommended to expand the use of BL approaches, especially for vulnerable groups like refugees while taking into consideration the challenges they stated. Further research should be conducted to investigate other variables that affect participants' perceptions like achievement, and majors.