Examining Students’ Readiness toward Using Learning Management System at University of Ha’il: A Structural Equation Modelling Approach

Abstract

During the past two decades, many universities around the world have deployed various types of learning management systems (LMSs) to manage the learning and teaching process electronically. The rapid spread of the coronavirus disease at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic quickened educational systems’ shifting from face-to-face to online instruction. Blackboard is the most used LMS during this transition in Saudi Arabian universities, institutions, and higher education institutions. Although previous research has widely investigated students’ adoption of Blackboard, few studies have examined the factors affecting their readiness toward e-learning. The present study used the model of Student Online Learning Readiness (SOLR) as the primary framework for examining the factors that may affect students’ readiness toward using Blackboard. A survey was delivered to undergraduate and postgraduate students at the University of Ha’il to collect data, and a total of 196 responses were received. A two-step process in AMOS was applied to analyse the data. The study findings showed that technical, social, and communication competencies had a significant positive influence on the readiness of students toward using Blackboard LMS. The study outcomes will provide educators, designers, decision-makers, and practitioners with a deeper understanding of the factors that could influence students’ readiness toward using Blackboard and, thus, enhance the successful usage of the system.