Exploring the impact of digital learning platforms on student engagement and performance

This study examines the impact of digital learning platforms on student engagement and performance in Saudi Arabian higher education post-COVID-19. It explores how demographic factors, platform preferences, usage frequency, and satisfaction influence academic outcomes. Data were collected from 132 participants, considering factors such as age, gender, field of study, and education level through a structured survey. The analysis included descriptive statistics, ChiSquare tests to evaluate platform usage patterns, and correlation analysis to examine the relationships between demographic variables, platform usage, engagement, and satisfaction. Age distribution showed 40% of respondents in the 25-34 age group, with 35% in both the 35-44 and 45-54 groups, while gender representation was nearly balanced, with females at 55% and males at 45%. The Education field had the highest representation (35%), followed by Science (18.5%) and Business (8.5%). Among platforms, Zoom dominated usage, with 65 users engaging several times weekly and 12 daily. Microsoft Teams followed, with 41 frequent weekly users and 9 daily. Blackboard and Google Classrooms exhibited lower usage, with only 19 using Blackboard weekly, while Google Classrooms was least used. Engagement levels were comparable to traditional classes, with 63.6% indicating the same level, though technical issues affected performance for 30%, with 13 experiencing a notable decline. The Chi-Square test revealed a significant relationship (p < 0.05) between platform type and frequency, indicating that Zoom and Microsoft Teams were favored for frequent use. The results indicate that while digital platforms retain engagement similar to traditional methods, platform selection significantly influences frequency of use, with Zoom and Microsoft Teams preferred for regular interactions. Technical issues remain a barrier for a subset of students, affecting motivation and performance. Digital learning platforms can sustain student engagement effectively; however, improving technical support and platform features is crucial. This study uniquely highlights how digital platform preferences and demographic factors impact learning engagement and academic outcomes in a post-pandemic educational landscape.