A Multisite Survey of E-learning Readiness and Academic Performance among Nursing Students in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Introduction: Determining students’ readiness for e-learning is critical to implementing more effective education and performance. Nursing education in Saudi Arabia continues to struggle with a shortage of technical tools to enable teaching and acquiring critical nursing skills. Aim: To assess the level of e-learning readiness and academic performance and their association in nursing students and to determine the factors associated with e-learning readiness and academic performance. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional, multisite study was conducted on a convenience sample of nursing students (N = 139) attending nursing programs from multiple public and private universities in Saudi Arabia. A structured questionnaire was used for data collection from May 2020 to August 2020. Multivariate analyses were run using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS). Results: The mean age of the study participants was 27.3±6.34 years. The total average of e-learning readiness was 4.16 (SD=0.54). Bivariate analyses showed that age was associated with both e-learning readiness (r=0.175, p=0.03) and academic performance (r=0.341, p<0.001). Employment status, level of education, and previous experience with e-learning displayed significant association with e-learning readiness (p<0.05). In multivariate analyses, only previous experience with e-learning had positively influence on students e-learning readiness (b=0.188, p<0.05). Technology access subscale (b=0.206, p<0.05) and level of education (b=0.323, p<0.05) had both positive impacts on students’ academic performance. Conclusion: The e-learning readiness score was high among the nursing students, especially if they were employed or had previous experience with it. Access to technology improved students’ academic performance. The current e-learning mechanism may need some developments in order to meet students’ different needs.

Use of Technology in Enhancing Learning Among Nurses in Saudi Arabia; a Systematic Review

“… Full distance learning approach is an effective approach; however, appropriate awareness is necessary to be raised. INNAB et al 31 The study has aimed to identify E-learning Readiness and Academic Performance among nursing students in Saudi Arabia Quantitative survey Private universities of Saudi Arabia 139 nursing students have been selected to collect data. The survey has identified that the students are ready for e-learning approach because their academic performance is improving.…”

“… 29 Some students feel that e-learning does not provide the same level of support and engagement as traditional classroom learning. 28 , 31 Additionally, some students may experience technical difficulties or may lack the necessary technology or internet connection to access e-learning resources. About 61.5% of the students who participated expressed dissatisfaction with their e-learning experience.…”

“…INNAB et al 31 The study has aimed to identify The survey has identified that the students are ready for e-learning approach because their academic performance is improving.…”