Factors and Challenges in Understanding Al-Quran using Technology during Pandemic Covid-19

Abstract

Since the outbreak of Covid-19, Malaysians have experienced a new norm when the government introduced the Movement Control Ordinance (MCO) nationwide. As a result, all Malaysians must work from home and communicate using information technology. With plenty of free time at home, many have taken the opportunity to study the Qur’an to get closer to Allah s.w.t. The study of the Qur’an is compulsory for Muslims because the Qur’an is the book of guidance for human life. Since Arabic is the language of the Qur’an, it is important to learn Arabic. Understanding Arabic in prayer and while reciting the Qur’an can increase one's sense of khusyuk in worshiping Allah s.w.t. However, it is difficult for non-native Arabic speakers (N-NAS) to learn Arabic. Therefore, this study aims to understand the factors and challenges in learning Arabic through Al-Qur’an using technology among N-NAS specifically Malay people in Malaysia. The findings of this study will help software developers and policymakers to understand better the needs of users in learning the Arabic language using technology to develop mobile learning applications in the future.