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Technology-enhanced learning (TEL) uses digital tools and technologies to improve learning experiences by addressing educational challenges such as accessibility, equity, and quality. There is evidence that it comes with issues like digital divide, limited infrastructure, socio-technical and cultural challenges, particularly in low-and-middle income or low-tech regions like Middle East and North Africa (MENA). This study explores the benefits and impact of TEL, and extent to its application in higher education in the MENA region. A systematic review using PRISMA methodology identified and analyzed 85 peer-reviewed studies from 2015 to 2024. Scholarly search for articles was done using Scopus and Web of Science (WoS) databases. Data analysis used trend analysis, geographical distribution, and thematic synthesis of TEL benefits, challenges, and implementation in MENA through methods such as Concept mapping and Text mining in VOSviewer, Tableau, and R statistics software. The results emphasize the transformative potential of TEL in MENA, but identifies critical research gaps, such as limited longitudinal studies, underexplored MENA contexts, limited training for educators, which hinders equitable adoption, and need for comprehensive strategies to address systemic barriers. TEL adoption varied across the MENA region, with resource-rich and high-tech countries leading the TEL integration process driven by national policies and strategic investment, while underrepresented nations face significant barriers, which require targeted interventions. The paper empirically sheds light on the theoretical and practical implications of the study toward effective application and adoption of TEL-based learning in MENA, expanding geographic or sectoral coverage, prioritizing of stakeholder perspectives, and exploring advanced TEL technologies to ensure inclusive and sustainable educational practices.
Eltaiba et al. (Wed,) studied this question.