ONLINE / DISTANT LEARNING

Online / Distant Learning in Qatar

Abstract

Web-based education, because of its convenience, has become an important delivery method across multiple higher education contexts. In particular, online courses offer time and space flexibility that enable working adults to continue to keep their full-time jobs while earning college credits. In this paper, we will be analyzing the sector and strategies. We will also be recommending strategies for e-learning. In addition, there are several initiatives that have to be taken before implementing e-learning in the countries. These initiatives are Macro and Micro analysis of the country Qatar. Strategic analysis like Porter Five Forces, SWOT, and PEST analysis these are important aspects that report will analyse. The demand of the program supporting the eLearning is growing day by day, and there is a need to support and address the training and learning requirements looking at the increasing demands of the eLearning and online education.

Table of Contents

Abstractii

Introduction1

Sector Anlysis1

Macro Environment - Qatar PESTE Analysis1

Political Analysis1

Legislature2

Economic2

Economic Evolution in Favour of E-Learning3

Social3

Technological Evolution in Favour of E-Learning4

Qatar Telecom and Internet4

Environmental5

Micro Environment- Porter Five Forces for E-Learning in Qatar8

The Threat of the Entry of New Competitors8

The Threats of Substitute Products8

The Bargaining Powers of Customer9

The Bargaining Power of Suppliers9

The Intensity of Competitive Rivalry9

Sector Strategies10

Internal Analysis - Porters Value Chain Analysis10

Inbound Logistics10

Operations10

Outbound Logistics10

Marketing and Sales10

Service11

Competitive Strategies11

Growth Strategy12

Porters Competitive Strategies12

Ansoff Matrix Strategies13

Recommended Strategies13

Conclusion14

References16

Online / Distant Learning in Qatar

Introduction

Qatar is an emirate ruled by the al-Thani family since the mid-1800s; after a referendum held in April 2003, a new constitution was adopted. The constitution, which came into effect on the back of overwhelming popular support, seeks to uphold the basic tenets of personal liberty, equal opportunity for all citizens and protect private proprietorship. As in the growing economy and globalisation Qatar is also capable of implanting e-learning and online education in the country. E-learning is known as a planned teaching or learning experience that uses a wide range of technologies, primarily Internet or computer-based programs, to reach learners.

In some instances, there is no face-to-face interaction with an instructor. In schools and colleges, e-learning is used to refer to a modality for attending a course or study program. Students may not necessarily attend face-to-face instructors on campus but may study exclusively online. Educators who design and/or deliver online materials and courses are expected to be highly skilled in instructional design, especially in a content area and computer and Internet use. In addition, they are expected to work well with the special needs of e-learners. Online courses are rapidly increasing in educational institutions (Bruce, Weitzman, 2002, p.45).

Sector Anlysis

Macro Environment - Qatar PESTE Analysis

Political Analysis

Qatar is a traditional emirate, wherein the emir of Qatar acts as the head of state as well as the head of government. Qatar has been dominated by the al-Thani family since the mid 19th century. The emir has to act within the confines of the Shari'a (Islamic law). Qatar does not have political parties. However, popular participation in public affairs is gradually ...