Facebook as an assisted learning tool in problem-based learning: the Bahrain case

Abstract

Facebook is one of the social media technologies with applications in many domains, including education. This study describes the students’ engagement with Facebook as an assisted learning tool in problem-based learning (PBL) cohort in Bahrain. Additionally, we analyse the reception of the students towards Facebook as a learning aid tool. A range of mixed methods data collection techniques and triangulation was performed to reveal the complexity of the topic under investigation. The data collection was through (pre and post) questionnaires and an interview. The empirical data showed that the use of Facebook as a learning tool had a positive impact on students. The study provides experimental evidence that social networks and more specifically Facebook can be used as an educational tool in PBL context to help engage students in the use of social media.