The evolution of incorporating technology in EFL settings has enhanced the implementation of new instructional strategies to improve students' performance and increase variation in teaching English Language. This paper aims at investigating An-Najah National University students' perceptions towards Blended Learning environment using traditional methods in addition to OCC (Online Course Container) which is both a synchronous and asynchronous tool for computer assisted communication used to aid EFL learners improve their four language skills. The study included (92) students enrolled in a general English course (10103) offered at the language Center at the university. A questionnaire was designed to measure the students' attitudes towards BL (Blended Learning) using (OCC) in terms of: the process, ease of use, and content. Interviews were also conducted to validate the study and elicit more feedback. The study concludes that in general the students’ attitudes towards BL were positive in terms of the three domains. Moreover, it reflects the students' internet and IT skills and interests due to internet availability and accessibility.
Information about the rate of smoking and factors associated with initiating and maintaining the behaviour is scarce in Palestine. The aim of this study was to explore the rate of and attitudes towards smoking among An-Najah National University students. During spring 2010, a questionnaire adopted from the Global Health Professionals Survey and the Global Youth Tobacco Survey was administered to 954 randomly selected full-time students. Overall 34.7% of the study sample were cigarette or waterpipe smokers, and this rate was higher among males than females (52.7% versus 16.5%). In logistic regression analysis, sex (male), type of college (humanities), older age and higher family income were predictors of current smoking status. Smokers had more negative attitudes to banning smoking in public areas on campus and to education about the harmful effects of smoking. Antismoking programmes with special attention to males and students in humanities are badly needed.