Meeting the challenge in a crisis: Students perceptions of emergency on-line teaching in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

This paper explores the perceptions of a group of female Saudi Arabian university students, during the Covid-19 pandemic, regarding emergency on-line learning (EOL). The study utilized a mixed methods approach comprising two surveys. The first, examining the mechanics and structure of the shift. The second, a qualitative design eliciting the students’ responses to EOL. While the students initially enjoyed the experience, as time progressed a sense of dissatisfaction developed which became worse the longer the lockdowns lasted. The results assist policy makers, social workers, and student advisors to prepare for future crises that may result in another prolonged lockdown.