Distance-learning for Arab Women Empowerment

abdelnasser Abdelaal, King Faisal University

Abstract

Arab women constitute about 50% of the human capital, and their empowerment could drive the social and economic development of Arab societies. However, most of these women are lagging behind because of civil wars, lack of skills, unfavorable laws and regulations, family responsibilities and restrictions. In this ongoing work, we investigate the role of distance learning in empowering Arab women. We found that distance-learning facilitates key factors of women empowerment. It enables them to build knowledge networks, balance family needs and study assignments, access online resources, build leadership, achieve collective actions, and overcome obstacles preventing them from joining traditional educational programs.

 

Distance-learning for Arab Women Empowerment

Arab women constitute about 50% of the human capital, and their empowerment could drive the social and economic development of Arab societies. However, most of these women are lagging behind because of civil wars, lack of skills, unfavorable laws and regulations, family responsibilities and restrictions. In this ongoing work, we investigate the role of distance learning in empowering Arab women. We found that distance-learning facilitates key factors of women empowerment. It enables them to build knowledge networks, balance family needs and study assignments, access online resources, build leadership, achieve collective actions, and overcome obstacles preventing them from joining traditional educational programs.