A culturally aware privacy enhancing technologies framework for improving the e-learning systems usage in Libyan universities

Innovations in educational technology have enabled the development of e-learning systems for educational services. Educational institutions handle large amounts of sensitive data, including personal information and academic records, making them particularly vulnerable to cyber threats. Ensuring the security of e-learning systems is not only a technological necessity but also a fundamental commitment to maintaining the integrity of the educational experience. Security and privacy experts have long advocated for the adoption of privacy-enhancing technologies (PETs) in e-learning systems. However, it remains uncertain whether higher education students fully understand the protection these technologies provide. This study aims to develop and validate a culturally aware privacy-enhancing technologies (PETs) framework to improve the usage of e-learning systems in Libyan universities. The goal is to enhance the educational process within a secure e-learning environment and offer guidelines to support the use and acceptance of PETs. A student-centred approach was adopted to evaluate the student experience and improve PET design. The study began with a comprehensive literature review, including a systematic review to identify factors that encourage or limit PET use in e-learning. This study specifically examined how Libyan cultural factors affect PETs adoption using a mixed-methods research approach, which included a pilot study, interviews, and a questionnaire. The study identifies key factors classified into two main categories: (1) literature review factors, including cultural aspects, and (2) Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) factors. Interview findings revealed a lack of sufficient privacy laws to support a secure e-learning environment, though the ICT infrastructure is adequate for implementing updates. Questionnaire results showed that TAM factors significantly influence users’ experiences, and cultural influences are also essential in determining PET usage. A core component of this research is the development of the Privacy Enhancing Technologies Culturally-aware Framework (PETCF), which was designed and validated as an innovative privacy-preserving tool by integrating new privacy-enhancing technologies (PETs) alongside culture-aware models tailored for e-learning systems in Libyan universities. This framework aims to address privacy needs while respecting cultural issues, offering a novel approach to fostering secure and culturally relevant e-learning systems.

Citation

Alghodi, M. (2025) A culturally aware privacy enhancing technologies framework for improving the e-learning systems usage in Libyan universities. University of Wolverhampton. https://wlv.openrepository.com/handle/2436/626120

Publisher

University of Wolverhampton

URI

https://wlv.openrepository.com/handle/2436/626120

Type

Thesis or dissertation

Language

en

Description

A thesis submitted in fulfilment of the requirements of the University of Wolverhampton for the degree of Doctor of Philosophy.

Collections

Theses and Dissertations