Challenges Faced by Teachers while Utilizing Blended Learning in Teaching EFL during COVID-19 at Cycle Two Schools in Oman

The main objective of the current study was to identify the challenges faced by the teachers while utilizing blended learning in teaching EFL during COVID-19 at cycle two schools in Oman. A qualitative inquiry method based on semi-structured interviews was used. Thematic analysis was utilized for analyzing the interviews. Seven English teachers were interviewed at cycle two schools. The results showed that the main challenges faced by teachers revolved around their failure to efficiently use digital and software applications and fix several hardware-related bugs during their various BL teaching sessions. This failure emerged due to teachers' lack of training and poor ICT skills. The study recommends conducting further studies on the effectiveness of training programs to develop teachers’ competencies and enhance their attitudes towards the use of BL during pandemics.