Are Students Ready to Adopt E-Learning? A Preliminary E-readiness Study of a University in the Gulf Region

As e-learning gains popularity in many Colleges and Universities worldwide, the evaluation of e-learning readiness is critical for the successful implementation of e-learning as a platform for various learning environments. Success in elearning can be achieved by understanding the needs as well as the readiness of all stakeholders in a particular e-learning environment. This paper provides a discussion on the students’ readiness and their perceptions towards the implementation of e-learning in a university located in the gulf region. The institution under study is in the beginning stages of implementing an e-learning environment for a number of its courses. Students in the College of Information Technology were volunteered to participate in this study. A survey was conducted to identify and analyze key components of e-learning readiness: technology, Internet usage, and general understanding of e-learning and culture at this institution. Study findings indicate that there is a high acceptance level in adopting e-learning in this particular institution. Results also show that a fairly high percentage of students think that e-learning could contribute positively to their learning experience. Finally, elearning may ultimately help students build confidence in taking charge of their learning and become independent learners.