The Social Media Factor: How Platforms Impact Usability of Blackboard at Umm Al Qura University

This study investigated the perceived usability of the Blackboard learning management system (LMS) amongst students at Umm Al-Qura University. A quantitative approach was employed to explore the potential relationship between Blackboard usability and social media platform usage. Additionally, the study aimed to identify other factors influencing perceived usability. Data were collected through a three-section questionnaire distributed electronically to a sample of students (n=544). The findings, based on System Usability Scale (SUS) scores, revealed that the overall perceived usability of Blackboard resided near the midpoint of the scale, indicating an "acceptable" level. A potential negative correlation emerged between social media usage time and perceived Blackboard usability. Students who reported lower social media usage exhibited higher SUS scores. Training on Blackboard usage demonstrably exerted a positive influence on perceived usability. Gender was not identified as a statistically significant factor. An analysis of student support methods revealed that seeking help from a friend was the most prevalent approach, followed by search engines, university technical support, and social media platforms. The findings suggest that implementing strategies to improve Blackboard usability at Umm Al-Qura University could be achieved through readily accessible training materials and the exploration of alternative support channels.