The Effectiveness of E-Training Programs in Developing the Professional and Technical Competencies of School Leaders: An Experimental Study in the Omani Context

Abstract

This research aims to explore the impact of e-training on developing the professional and technical competencies of school leaders in the Sultanate of Oman, within the framework of the Ministry of Education's modern directions towards digital transformation and lifelong learning. The study problem stems from recurring observations regarding the limitations of traditional training programs in meeting the requirements of contemporary school leadership, and the resulting gap between current practices and future needs. The study adopted a quasi-experimental design, where an integrated e-training program was implemented with a sample of (60) educational leaders, divided into two groups: an experimental group and a control group. Professional and technical competencies were measured using a standardized instrument before and after the experiment. The results showed statistically significant differences favoring the experimental group in developing professional and technical competencies, reflecting the effectiveness of e-training in enhancing leadership abilities and technical skills compared to the traditional method. The results also indicated that the training program's impact extended to strengthening the leaders' orientations towards digital innovation, knowledge-based decision-making, and the practice of effective educational leadership. The study recommends integrating e-training as Faculty of Islamic Studies. Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, 43600, Bangi, Selangor, lecturer at the Research Center for Dakwah and Leadership, Faculty of Islamic Studies. a strategic option in the professional development programs for school leaders in the Sultanate of Oman. This integration should focus on building interactive learning platforms and providing technical support to ensure the sustainability of these programs and contribute to achieving the goals of educational transformation and Oman Vision 2040.