Acceptance of e-learning among distance learners

A Malaysian perspective

Abstract

Distance learning and e-learning are rapidly becoming popular modes of studies among students and working adults worldwide. This trend is also visible in Malaysia, with the emergence of several higher education distance learning institutions using e-learning to support its learning activities such as the Open University of Malaysia and the Wawasan University. However, an important point of concern to both educators and researchers are the distance learners’ acceptance of e-learning. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the acceptance of e-learning among distance learners at the Open University of Malaysia in Malaysia. This cross-sectional survey used questionnaires to obtain the necessary data. The questionnaires used to measure distance learners’ acceptance of e-learning were adapted from the research instruments used by Poon, Low and Yong (2004). A total of 112 students from the Open University branch campus in Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia responded to the questionnaires. Most of the students surveyed reported moderate levels of e-learning acceptance. The findings of this study indicated that institutions offering distance learning via e-learning should provide some non-credit courses to improve students’ acceptance of e-learning.