Non-parametric Statistical Methods to Predict the Benefits of Switching to E-learning, by Application on Saudi Universities

The current research aims to use non-parametric tests to predict the benefits of switching to e-learning. Non-parametric tests (Chi-square goodness of fit, Chi-square independence and Kruskal Wallis) were used. For the empirical analysis, a questionnaire was used as a tool to collect data and distribute it in 8 Saudi public universities. The research questions included: What are the readiness students of switching to e-learning? What are the most significance indicators of the positive and negative impact of switching to e-learning? The findings indicated that (67.1%) of the students have a high the readiness. It had been seen that the most significance of indicators related to the benefits of switching to e-learning are: (e-learning solves the problem of increasing the number of students, e-learning focuses more on knowledge, it reduces time, it is flexible, e-learning has succeeded in developing programs, e-learning offers topics are well organized, it increases the sharing of experiences between students, assessment methods are fair; and it gives me enough time to think). The most significance indicators related to the challenges, are (e-learning prompted students not to underestimate the education, the professor can identify the negative student, the university provides a virtual library, I have get sufficient training, indirect communication does not affect the understanding, virtual laboratories have been activated, there is no difficulty in submitting exams, the internet is strong in my area, virtual classes are more effective, e-learning helps in exchanging assignments, and the university provides technical support). The findings showed that the course content was the decisive factor of switching to e-learning. The findings can benefit for educators and policy makers for the effective implementation of e-learning in Saudi universities, through attention is paid to all indicators that have a negative impact. And adopting the positive indicators to encourage students to continue e-learning in the future.