Using E-learning System in Jordanian Universities during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Benefits and Challenges

Abstract

During the Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and the national lockdowns implemented in countries around the world, many universities worldwide made the transition from face-to-face delivery to online learning using e-learning systems. However, the successful transition from traditional class-based learning to online learning depends greatly on understanding the challenges related to the implementation and use of e-learning systems, as well as the technical and management factors that need to be enhanced. This study aimed to investigate the challenges related to the use of e-learning systems in Jordanian universities and to explore the technical and management aspects that impacted the successful implementation and use of e-learning systems during COVID-19. To achieve the study objectives, a questionnaire was developed by the researcher and distributed online to lecturers working at Jordanian universities. A total of 184 lecturers participated in the study. Based on the findings, the study provides recommendations which will help higher education policy makers, university management teams, and software developers build strategies to ensure the successful implementation and use of e-learning systems during the COVID-19 pandemic.

E-Learning and Blended Learning Methodologies Used in Universities During and After COVID-19

“…To make the shift from traditional classroom-based learning to online learning as smooth as possible, it is important to recognize the challenges involved with the incorporation and use of e-learning systems as well as the technical and management components that need to be improved. For example, Abu Al Aish [4] tried to look at the obstacles of using e-learning systems in Jordanian universities, as well as the technical factors that influenced the effective implementation and usage of e-learning systems during COVID-19. To achieve the goals of the study, instructors from Jordanian universities were given a questionnaire to fill.…”

“…The Jordanian Ministry of Higher Education unexpectedly decided to stop class-based learning in all Jordanian universities and switch to distant learning in the second semester of 2020, which surprised many instructors and students because traditional class-based learning and blended-learning were the usual teaching methods in all courses. This transition to online learning was not easy and many difficulties were encountered [3] [4].…”