Faculty readiness for online teaching at Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University during the COVID-19 crisis: a cross-sectional study

Background: The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has affected education sector around world. In order to control spread virus, eLearning practice been introduced in Saudi higher education. Such online communication become an important tool narrow teaching gap. This study assessed characteristics and distance learning inclination Imam Abdulrahman BinFaisal University (IAU) faculty members terms skills, managing classes tests using tools. Methods: A QuestionPro questionnaire with 22 questions on experience, training skills knowledge educational process IAU was conducted through university e-mail domain. sent IAU’s faculty. questionnaire’s reliability studied Cronbach’s a coefficient. criterion value statistically KMO (Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin) Bartlett’s test. variables associated present survey model were analysed Structural Equation Modelling (SEM). Results: The showed positive responses readiness (skills abilities) effectiveness perform e-learning activities during COVID-19. received strong response, respondents also impressed agreed trainer knowledge, session management, expertise topics. Conclusions: response indicates provide necessary support (tools, information updates) required for successful process.