An Evaluation Study of an e-Learning Course at the United Arab Emirates University: A Case Study

E-Learning (e-L) is the latest wave of development of distance education, which has become an extremely important part of instructional technology (Almekhlafi, 20006). Recent e-L research has indicated the utility of this instructional method for both students and teachers. However, teacherspsila perceptions of e-L utility have not been extensively researched, particularly in the United Arab Emirates. The purpose of this study is to explore preservice teachers´ perception of the utility of e-L at the College of Education, United Arab Emirates University. Study participants were 278 preservice teachers studying the capstone course during 2005-2006 and 2006-2007 academic years. A questionnaire was administered to preservice teachers taking the course electronically (e-L). Study results showed high self-perception of the utility of e-L. In addition, a positive relationship between the overall course grade and the frequency of using Blackboard communication tools was found. On the other hand, results did not show any significant differences between participants´ overall course grade due to method of instruction (online versus face-to-face). Implications for United Arab Emirates context were discussed.