Arab Educational Information Network

This study aims at identifying the impact of e-learning platforms; inclusive of all components (availability of online platforms, efficiency and effectiveness), on the educational process, which involves learners, teachers and learning outputs. The study adopts the descriptive and analytical approach, involving a study sample of 40 persons; selected from faculty members, directors of relevant departments, heads of educational departments and branch directors working for the Police Science Academy in Sharjah, where the e-learning system was applied at all levels of study during the Corona pandemic. The study aims to evaluate that experience and to identify the impact of the application of e-learning platforms on the educational process. The study arrived at a set of results, including: E-learning platforms have a clear impact on the educational process. The most impacted component was learning outputs, followed by the learners’ studying component and finally the teacher’s component. 1) E-learning platforms have several features, including ease of use, ease of downloading teaching materials and files. They tend to create interactive environments between students and teachers, provide greater opportunities for analysis and enrich discussions, provide various resources, and create the appropriate psychological and social atmosphere for the parties involved (student and teacher). 2) E-learning platforms contribute to increased students' motivation to study and revise study materials because they are always available on appropriate display form. 3) They help teachers to carry out online evaluations for student’s work. 4) Many challenges are identified relating to the use of e-learning platforms, such as piracy and misuse risks, as well as being negatively affected by possible disruption of internet network connectivity. Based on the above results, a set of recommendations are proposed, most importantly: 1) It is deemed imperative to provide the appropriate infrastructure for e-learning platforms, including connectivity networks. 2) Putting in place a strategic plan for the continuation and sustainability (permanent or partial) distance learning platforms, to enhance the preparedness and readiness of educational institutions to convert to distance learning, whenever deemed necessary. 3) Developing the mechanism of e-learning platforms' work and effecting continuous updating and improving performance. 4) Organizing continuous courses for all employees through e-learning platforms to develop their performance and overcome the challenges that may arise during the teaching process. (Published abstract)