ABSTRACT
The Arab Open University (AOU) is the first university in the Arabian Gulf region that adopts blended learning as a teaching and learning approach. The total number of AOU branches reached eight. Some leading conventional higher educational institutions have partially implemented blended learning by adopting various online Learning Management Systems (LMS) to enhance the teaching and learning process. Implementations include providing material in electronic format and discussions, communications and counselling through these systems. Fleck views blended learning as a mix of conventional face-to-face elements and online facilities. Singleton stated that it has many definitions in higher education today, but the most common is a course with online and on-campus components. The external environment is anything surrounding the blended learning system. It is suggested that the effects of the external environment be considered when designing a blended programme or course. Blended learning is the smart use of pedagogy and technology for the sake of efficient learning processes and effective higher institutions.
