Measuring Students' Readiness to Use E-leaming Platforms: Shaqra University as a Case Study

Abstract

We are in the midst of a technological revolution. Technology can be used in education systems to improve productivity and to provide many benefits for students. In Saudi Arabia the adoption of e-learning is considered to be in the first stage, although some universities have introduced initiatives to implement electronic learning platforms. The Shaqra University has recently been implementing an e-learning Platform. Consequently, the goals of the study were: (i) to measure the readiness of students to use the e-learning platform in Shaqra University; and (ii) to measure the differentiate between gender and usage experience affected the readiness of student in using the e-learning platform. The results of a questionnaire distributed among students to collect data show that the students in Shaqra University have a sufficient degree of readiness to use the e-learning platform and have some skills that will assist them to use the platform effectively. The results also showed a non-significant difference between males and females in their readiness regarding technology access, study skills and motivation. However, female students” readiness in relation to technology skills and time management skills was significantly greater than that of male students. In relation to technology access, study skills, time management skills, technology skills and motivation, a significant difference in readiness also existed between students who had experienced e-learning and those who had not, with readiness being stronger for all factors in the experienced student group. The results of this study may assist top management in Shaqra University to make decisions that will facilitate the successful implementation of this project.