ASSESSING THE E-LEARNERS SATISFACTION AMID THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC OF SAUDI ARABIA’S HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS

Abstract

Electronic learning commonly known as e-learning is an interactive learning method that involves the use of information and communication technology to create a learning experience with sufficient freedom. E-learning has gained significant attention in education sectors around the world during the COVID-19 pandemic since it provides several benefits to learners including flexible learning facilities, distance learning opportunities, consistency in learning, time-saving, tracking capabilities, minimal cost facilities, quick response, interactive learning facilities, etc. From this point of view, this study assessed the e-learners' satisfaction amid the COVID-19 pandemic in Saudi Arabian higher education institutions. The study was conducted using mixed methods, including quantitative and qualitative approaches. The findings of the study demonstrated that higher education institutions in Saudi Arabia were well-prepared to ensure quality education for e-learners during the pandemic. In particular, it was found that the majority of students in higher education in Saudi Arabia were very pleased with the e-learning classroom facilities, teacher contact, accessibility, assessment, course content, course design, and course activities. Conversely, the findings of the study reveal several existing challenges of e-learning in higher education institutions, including high internet costs, technological issues, time management issues, less motivation to access e-classrooms, the quality of online classes, etc. Therefore, this paper recommends that to address the issues that might influence to e-learners' satisfaction of e-learning in higher education institutions in Saudi Arabia, concerned authorities should provide special attention to ensure technological development, professional development, communication development, and updated policies and standards.