Return on investment for developing electronic courses at Umm Al-Qura University: A case study

Abstract

This study focuses on using the return-on-investment (ROI) method to assess the effectiveness of e-learning programs and projects at universities. It aims to increase the efficiency of these programs and help identify promising e-learning initiatives for the future. Research indicates that only a small percentage (8%) of educational institutions measure the ROI of their teaching programs. This particular research evaluates the ROI of an e-learning course development project at Umm Al-Qura University, conducted between 2019 and 2021 under the E-Learning and Distance Education Deanship. The methodology of the study involves descriptive analysis. This includes assessing the project's ROI, reviewing related literature, creating research tools, and performing statistical data analysis. The study found that the project had an ROI of 189.9%, meaning it produced nearly double the investment made in it. This indicates financial success, as the benefits of the project surpassed its costs. Moreover, the study highlights several indirect advantages of the project. These include increased satisfaction levels among students and faculty with the e-learning courses and enhanced learning outcomes. The project also aimed to improve the skills of students and faculty in using computers, the internet, and distance communication tools, thereby contributing to the overall institutional work system at Umm Al-Qura University.