Virtual Education During COVID-19 Exploring Factors Associated With E-Learning Satisfaction Among Saudi Nursing Students

Background: Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, education and learning processes have been shifted to a completely virtual, online format. Students' satisfaction has been linked to better learning outcomes. Purpose: The purpose was to determine factors associated with students' satisfaction with e-learning among Saudi nursing students. Methods: A cross-sectional, correlational descriptive study was conducted among 139 nursing students from different nursing programs in Saudi Arabia using a self-reported online survey. Results: Previous experience with and readiness for e-learning influenced students' overall satisfaction with e-learning and satisfaction with assessment. Only readiness for e-learning was associated with satisfaction with teaching and generic skills and learning experiences. Conclusions: This study may enhance faculty members' understandings of factors influencing students' satisfaction with e-learning. Therefore, the urgent national distance education plan may need further development to meet students' needs.

Automated summary

This study conducted a survey among 139 nursing students in Saudi Arabia and found that students' satisfaction with e-learning is influenced by previous experience and readiness. It may enhance faculty members' understanding of factors affecting students' satisfaction with e-learning and suggests the need for further development of national distance education plans to meet students' needs.