The Impact of the Difference Between Collaboration Modes (Synchronous – Asynchronous) in an Interactive Infographic-Based E-Learning Environment on the Development of Digital Citizenship Skills Among Eleventh-Grade Students in the Sultanate of Oman

Abstract

The study aimed to investigate the impact of the difference between collaboration modes (synchronous and asynchronous) within an interactive infographic-based e-learning environment on the development of digital citizenship skills among eleventh-grade female students in the Sultanate of Oman. To achieve this objective, the researcher designed an e-learning environment built on interactive infographics that supported both synchronous and asynchronous participation modes. A quasi-experimental design was employed, using two experimental groups with pre- and post-tests to address the research questions. The study sample consisted of 60 eleventh-grade female students, divided into two experimental groups: the first (30 students) studied through the synchronous participation mode, while the second (30 students) studied through the asynchronous mode within the same learning environment. The research instrument was an achievement test measuring digital citizenship skills. The findings revealed statistically significant differences at the (α = 0.05) level between the pre- and post-test mean scores for both participation modes, in favor of the post-test, indicating a strong and positive effect of both modes in developing digital citizenship skills. Furthermore, the results showed a difference between the two participation modes in favor of the synchronous mode, which proved relatively more effective than the asynchronous one. Nevertheless, the asynchronous mode also demonstrated clear effectiveness, highlighting the potential of utilizing both modes according to educational contexts and learners’ needs. Based on these findings, the researcher proposed a set of recommendations and suggestions to enhance the use of collaborative e-learning environments in fostering digital citizenship skills