The Effectiveness and Potential of E-Learning in War Zones: An Empirical Comparison of Face-to-Face and Online Education in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

This paper compares the effectiveness of e-learning and face-to-face education in the previously neglected context of Saudi Arabia. This is done by examining Najran University’s e-learning experience after the institution suspended traditional course delivery due to the ongoing war between Saudi Arabia, the Arab Coalition, and Yemeni rebel groups. The analysis also considers the potential benefits offered by e-learning in crisis zones such as the southern border region of Najran, Saudi Arabia. The results indicate that there is no statistical or practical difference between online and face-to-face learning with respect to student performance. This paper also demonstrated that e-learning is capable of delivering the educational goals of higher learning institutions to areas wrecked by wars. E-Learning offers students a safe learning environment, engaging platforms, and most importantly a quality education. The findings of this paper contribute to a growing body of scholarship on the effectiveness and implementation of e-learning in the Middle East.