Creating a Collaborative E-Learning Environment - Assignment Example

Creating collaborative e-learning environment Introduction: The present global environment calls for rapid incorporation of the technologies and organizational tools which would encourage rapid growth and advancement of the e-learning environment in harmony with international standards. Along with technological skills and advancement needed to meet the present global trend, it is important to have accurate analysis of diverse perspectives in the effectiveness of organizations learning outcomes. An understanding of such outcomes will lead to an impetus which would help the organization grow. There are two perspectives which play a significant role in the determination of the outcomes these are critical theory and critical systems theory, which simultaneously play a critical role in determining the outcome of the process involved in determination of the system which effects collaborative e-learning environment. The role of information systems in collaboration with e-learning environment adds new perspective to the learning environment which is unique and competitive. It is continuously tested in this new environment with new challenges to organizational development and culture. It leads to dynamic changes in the learning environment where country’s educational opportunities play critical role in impacting the educational opportunities and acceleration of the human capital. It is important to integrate appropriate information technology as useful tool in facilitating e-learning. The backup of sound organizational plan is the ground based on which e-learning environment can be managed and motivated to achieve its optimum potential. The two perspectives of organizational planning based on the critical social theory and critical systems theory will allow for complete and comprehensive evaluation of the research topic in relation to educational environment. Description of the research topic: The research topic is “creating collaborative e-learning environment”. This topic is very modern and global in it’s dimension and will require deep in-depth consideration of the factor which also affect the organizational culture in the present global e-learning environment. The research aims to target factors which impact the implementation of the new collaborative environment through the systematic and comprehensive use of the research methods which is used for gathering data and evaluation in organizational set up. The second, aim of the research is to address the issue of generating new channel for students to learn through the use of technology where enormous number of students has exposure to the system. The research question is aimed at students in Saudi Arabia, according to (Al Saif, 2005), currently, educational institutions in Saudi Arabia are possible to face some difficulties which related to the high number of students who are enrolling at Universities every year. He continued that by saying using new technologies to enable e-learning environment will brings more benefits such as solving the problem of the high number of students as well as open new method for students who can not attend the class such who has disabilities to have a chance for learning and education. According to (Lee, 2007), he indicated that in his study the gender play a significant role in IT researches and the researcher suggested to consider this element with IT researches. This type of education makes the opportunity for women in Saudi Arabia to interact and exchange information with men. The organizational culture and the perspective would play a very significant role determining the quality and progressive growth of the e-learning environment. The combined perspectives of critical social theory and critical systems theory along with organizational culture will provide the organization with full coverage of the human and technological factors which play the key role in collaborative process, to achieve optimal e-learning environment. This would allow for the collaborative e-learning environment to grow. The simultaneous and harmonious integration of these two perspectives will allow for freedom of human resource in critical social theory to boost human performance and use of system analysis to identify the constraints in technological factors which may impact the growth of the organization. It is important to focus on the research question, with emphasis on certain departments which can determine the level of decisions which are focused on administration. But this issue, takes different run in the light of the collaborative learning and thus moves from central administration to decentralized management and distribution of power in terms of making decision. Organizational analysis is significant in determining the distribution of power and how the influence is used to achieve decision-making in high level of e-learning. Thus evaluation and analysis of the two perspectives is important on advanced evaluation of organizational progress in the collaborative e-learning environment. This is necessary in the light of the rapid change which is very constant and continuous in the organizations today it is important to adopt a model which works effectively to reflect the e-learning environment based on IS theory and practice. Summary and synthesis of the first perspective: Organizational Culture Theory: Organizational Culture has been recognized as the blueprint of human, technological and other organizational factors which impact the success and the progress of the collaborative e-learning environment. One of the most significant contribution in this theory has been made by Ruben and Stewart (1998) in their book Communication and Human behavior defining organizational culture as an aggregate impact experienced by the symbols, verbal and non –verbal behaviors, behavior patterns, folk tales, rituals and ceremonies which impact the whole functioning of human beings character. This plays critical role in personality development and responses which are central to the optimum functioning of the organization and serve a very important role in the communication within the framework of the organization. It involves people who participate in the formation and creation of this organizational function. These organizational functions play a very significant role in determining the culture which involves employees and their individual and collective identity which ultimately shapes the structure and the controls within the organization. This also has impact on the social aspect of the learning process in which employees participate through customs and cultures within the organization. This would play a critical role in shaping the organizational culture in Arabic environment. This brings about unity and cohesiveness within the organizational structure. Organizational culture emerges from the within the social norms practiced and followed through centuries. It is based on the philosophical belief, which urges the employees to adhere to work routines which match their thinking and belief system. It also has references which lead to associations with heroes of the culture, their rituals and ceremonies which intrinsically binds them the to the level of adherence and comfort zone. There are various aspects of organizational culture and indicators which are inherent within the social system which leads us to examine the social critical theory and social systems theory for more comprehensive analysis of the organizational culture. Language and culture play a significant role in shaping the organizational culture. Summary and synthesis of the second perspective: Critical Social theory: The examination and evaluation of the first perspective-‘The Critical Social Theory’ in reference to the research question first highlights the point that it an issue which is very much the inherent characteristic of globalization, which deal with large scale social and economic process. It takes into consideration the human factor which is diversified and not uniform. This calls for more pluralist and diversified approach to social inquiry in reference to collaborative learning and organizational culture and analysis. In the words of Andrew Linklater (2001) it requires practical knowledge and ideal based on democratic system. The purpose of the inquiry is in ‘knowing how’ of the practical normative knowledge, which are enacted and realized under particular social and historical circumstances. This must have salient difference which is between national and transnational institutions which have democratic influence over globalization which record feasible solutions. According to Bohman (1991) there has been evaluation of the current theories related to globalization, in the context of macro-sociological approach which has been given primary focus, and which imposes a degree of restraint on the democratic institutions. This has been proposed without denying that globalization is critical as it opens up new institutional possibilities and new dimensions for publicity. The critical social theory tests these possibilities by making it more diverse in its perspective, and making it more of global critical theory. Critical theory has evolved with time and changing social, political and economic needs. It has its broad perspective and traditional perspective; according to its traditional perspective mostly following Marxist tradition distinguished from a “traditional” theory ; it has been acknowledged that according to Horkheimer (1982) there has been reference to a specific purpose which identifies the critical nature of the theory as it extends to seek human emancipation, that is to aim to encourage them to get liberated form circumstances which leads to their enslavement. In this light the theory attempts to examine and explain with perspective of bringing about change in all circumstances that enslave , many “critical theories”. Such theories are critical as they aim to explain and change all such circumstances the led to human enslavement. A broader spectrum of analysis is made to develop such critical theories. Their emergence is in connection with many social movements that identify variety of consideration of social movements which lead to domination of human beings in the modern society. The power of critical theory is that in both the narrow and broad senses, the critical theory provides a description and basis for social inquiry which is aimed at containing domination and encouraging freedom in all forms of expression and practice. Horkheimer criticizes the “traditional theory” in the view that it rejects the representational view of knowledge and the references made to non-historical contexts and subjects. He is in harmony with Marx, in The German Ideology, where he insists that The importance of critical theory is in reference to the worlds and its bias, which is seen in all its forms as observed from the life processes which is prevalent in the society.(Horkheimer, 1982). Horkheimer argued that “materialism requires the unification of philosophy and science,” (Horkheimer1993). He thus denied any proven difference between science and philosophy. He also advocated that under critical theory the philosophical problems were addressed by taking active role in defining the problems which were related to research, and those that reflected philosophical leanings which were retained by organization and empirical research. This provided a unified view which gave an insight into the whole understanding of organizational behavior. According to Bohman (1991) there has been evaluation of the current theories related to globalization, in the context of macro-sociological approach which has been given primary focus, and which imposes a degree of restraint on the democratic institutions. This has been proposed without denying that globalization is critical as it opens up new institutional possibilities and new dimensions for publicity. In the light or evaluations and anlysis made by Bohman and Horkheimer, it is important to test the possibilities which resent a more open outlook and provides varieties of perspectives in practice, thus initiating a new and more global critical theory. In the background of the critical social theory, evaluating the variations of the theory in historical perspective, it can be concluded to have significant benefits in the light of the research question aiming at e-learning environment in Saudi Arabia. The theory is highly beneficial in organizational analysis as it incorporates the current rend in the field with new challenges which needs to be addressed from social and economic perspective. The theory aims to provide perspective which addressees the sensitive issue of freedom and emancipation as the key to organizational analysis. Thus it imparts significant importance to human resource and human interaction. The theory assumes that social reality is historically constituted and is impacted and implemented by the people. The freedom enjoyed by the people is phenomenal, where people can intentionally take action to alter their social and economic circumstances. In view of this critical social theory recognizes the ability of constraint on their emancipation, which is imposed by various forms of domination in the field of areas which represent social, cultural and political exposure. The primary focus of the critical research is in identifying a platform for social critique where the restricting situations which impede the status are brought into light. The most beneficial aspect of critical social theory is that it focuses on the conflicts, oppositions and contradictions which are existent in the contemporary society and aims to establish emancipation; it focuses on the elimination of the causes which lead to alienation and domination. Application of the first perspective in my topic: In the context of collaborative e-learning in Saudi Arabia, the critical social theory provides a perspective of social sciences which shows how political ideals have played a major role in informed decisions regarding the research question, which has historical perspective, but is also feasible under current conditions and modified scenarios of the global age. This really brings into perspective the right of individual to decision making, and deliberate action for self rule. This historical ideal of human freedom and emancipation provides the key to overthrow domination of any form which is very prevalent in the gender related segregation in Saudi Arabian context. This is perspective which would help modify and implement successful collaboration in e-learning in Saudi Arabian context. Critical systems theory: The evaluation and analysis of the second perspective ‘Critical Systems Theory’ provides an insight into the technological aspect of the research question which primarily is a global perspective on e-learning is. Critical management requires integration of systems dynamic and critical systems thinking to integrate with the curriculum management to have effective e-learning environment. In the present global context which deals with collaboration of the Information Technology in e-learning environment, it is important to consider the role which IT plays in the strategic outcomes, organizational structure and innovation and efficiency in the promotion of advanced organizational analysis. The current explosion of the use of information systems and technologies(this is my own word) has been remarkable, and has been the most used form of labor in commodity like form. The role which IT and systems thinking plays in promoting dynamic collaboration and information has been phenomenal within the educational circles and learning environment as well as organizational structure. The role of IT and critical systems theory integrated with critical systems thinking (CST) points to systematic review which can assess the role of IT in organization like e-learning environment in Saudi Arabia. This is necessary to enhance the quality and extent of organizational intelligence and decision making which contribute to betterment of the performance and the e-learning environment which has been undertaken as the research topic. In the modern global age we can say that Information system has been reduced almost commodity level of service and has been very inherent part of the labor, which is free from the boundaries of constraint. The emancipation and freedom experienced with the power of technological expertise is phenomenal in connectivity. The nature of information systems may vary giving critical systems theory a wide variety of platform in the area of software, databases and hardware. Jackson (2000, p. 363) stated that the appropriate relationship between CST and emancipation became clearer once Habermas’ three knowledge-constitutive interest had been embraced (Habermas, 1984a, b). Thus, the theory of emancipatory intent became a universal search for improvement rather than self-emancipation. Lyytinen and Klein (1985) put it like this: “ We suggest that information associated with the use and development of information systems can be regarded as knowledge for social action .” CST is defined by Flood (1990) as ‘a broad notion of critical science employed with a systems perspective’ and ‘critique’ is a process that ‘puts up a common opposition to instrumental rationality, because such a rationality can be linked to control in the human condition in a similar way to the idea of power in control of the natural world.’(Flood, 1990). The second perspective of Critical Systems Theory has been very effective in the collaboration of the research question which evaluates the e-learning environment in Saudi Arabia. The benefits of this perspective are direct and interactive in the country which experiences segregation on the basis of gender exposure. It allows all levels and class of people to access information at their own pace in their own free time. “ Saudi Arabia applies strict educational regulations based on an interpretation of Islamic teachings where females may not be seen by strange males without their veils”(Mirza) this kind of restriction on particular class with sense of subordination based on gender for females and domination based on gender for male has been overcome by the application of this second perspective in collaborative e-learning environment. Application of the second perspective in my topic: In the context of collaborative e-learning in Saudi Arabia, the critical systems theory provides a perspective of social sciences integrated with the technological benefits, which shows how technological ideals have played a major role in informed decisions regarding the research question, which has historical, social and political perspective. The problem mentioned in the research question is addressed with more current advancement in organizational analysis which makes it more feasible under current conditions of the global age. This really brings into perspective the right of individual emancipation to information and education in e-learning environment. This perspective would help modify and implement successful collaboration in e-learning in Saudi Arabian context. Comparative and Relative Evaluation of the two perspectives: The two perspectives offer a new dimension in the management of the organization in the light of human resource and technological requirement. They provide a possible theoretical perspective based on sound methodology which works in combination of critical social theory and critical systems theory, which are very loosely integrated in their historical links and perspective as described by Habermas. Their combination also provides benefits in real situation. It takes into consideration the social phenomena as well as their relationships with the technological progress and assimilation. Application of the results of the two perspectives in my topic: These two perspectives provide ground for effective and efficient collaboration of the e-learning environment in the context of Saudi Arabia where the role of emancipation is highly needed to bring about empowerment and efficiency through the social platform as well the technological platform. The critical social theory drives at the perspective of human factor aimed at reaching the goal of freedom from domination. The critical system theory aims at empowering them with knowledge as power which can id in emancipation with the collaboration of e-learning. Conclusion: The two perspectives which has been evaluated and critically examined to address the research question which deals with the collaboration of e-learning in the educational environment in Saudi Arabia, has been comprehensively analyzed from the organizational point of view. They provide a progressive benefit for organizational management and growth to meet the needs of the local people to meet the challenge of globalization. It also addresses the basic human ground of freedom from domination and equal right for education through e-learning environment without meeting the everyday challenges of social constraint. These two perspectives provide a comprehensive solution to the research question. It is very important for organizational perspective to apply knowledge and technology in such way that it can reinforce, objectify and focus the human power to achieve business success and individual emancipation. The significance of the systems approach being more technologically oriented finds harmony with the e-learning environment issue dealt in the research question. In formation systems which take harmonious integration of the two perspectives are primarily internet based in nature and thus provide sound platform for academic enquiry which has been the central concern for critical theories. This also leads to freedom and knowledge as toll for new emergent power relation based on the critical theories. The human force, the power of technology and the crossing of geographical boundaries have lead to the emergence of this new global age which promoted new wave of opportunities in Saudi Arabia. Work Cited Al Saif, A. A. (2005). The motivating and inhibiting factors affecting the use of webbased instruction at the University of Qassim in Saudi Arabia. WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY. Alshehri, A. M. (2005). Assessing faculty attitudes toward the significant factors forfacilitating the implementation of online courses at the Institute of Public Administration in Saudi Arabia. MISSISSIPPI STATE UNIVERSITY. Bohman, J. (1991). New Philosophy of Social Science: Problems of Indeterminacy. Cambridge: MIT Press. Lee, Y. K. (2007). Understanding e-learning consumers: the moderating effects of Gender and Lerner diversity. Journal of American Academy of Business, 11(1), 223–230. Linklater, A. (2001). “The Changing Contours of Critical International Relations Theory.” Critical Theory and World Politics, 23-44. Edited by R. W. Jones. London: Lynne Reinner. Horkheimer, M. (1982.) Critical Theory. New York: Seabury Press. Horkheimer, M (1993). Between Philosophy and Social Science. Cambridge: MIT Press. . Jackson, M.C. (2000) Systems Approaches to Management (Kluwer, New York). Jackson, N. and Carter, P. (1991) In defence of paradigm incommensurability. Organization Studies, 12(1), 109–27. Habermas, J. (1984a) The Theory of Communicative Action: Volume 1: Reason and the Rationalization of Society (Heinemann, London) (translated by T. McCarthy). Habermas, J. (1984b) The Theory of Communicative Action: Volume 2: Lifeworld and System: A Critique of Functionalist Reason (Heinemann, London) (translated by T. McCarthy). Lyytinen, K. and Klein, H.K. (1985) The critical theory of Jurgen Habermas as a basis for a theory of information systems. In Mumford, E., Hirscheim, R., Fitzgerald, G. and Wood-Harper, T. (eds) Research Methods in Information Systems. (Elsevier Science, North-Holland), pp. 219–36. Flood, R. L. (1990). Liberating Systems Theory. New York: Plenum Press. Mirza, Abdulrahman. AUtilizing Distance Learning Technologies to Deliver Courses in a Segregated Educational Environment, Information Systems, Department College of Computer and Information Sciences,King Saud University . Ruben, Brent D., and Stewart, Lea P. (1998). Communication and Human Behavior, 4th edition. 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