Analysis of the Effect of Course Design, Course Content Support, Course Assessment and Instructor Characteristics on the Actual Use of E-Learning System

Abstract

This work aims to investigate the main determinants that could play an important role in increasing the usage and acceptance of e-learning systems among Saudi students. The study employed the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (e-UTAUT) model and introduced new constructs to study the acceptance of e-learning systems in the Saudi Arabian context. The data were collected using a questionnaire survey from a total of 507 undergraduate and postgraduate students at King Faisal University (KFU). The research model was tested using the structural equation modeling technique (SEM). Based on the results, the factors of course design, course content support, course assessment and instructor characteristics were shown to have a significant effect on the actual use of e-learning systems. However, the influence of social influence on actual use was found to be statistically insignificant. Additionally, the course design, course content support, course assessment and instructor characteristics factors were found to have a positive effect on the performance expectancy of e-learning systems. The research findings serve as an important reference for university managers and researchers on students' priorities when improving course design, course content and course assessment, thereby increasing the usage and acceptance of e-learning systems among students.