Jeddah, December 25, 2024 – King Abdulaziz University (KAU) has earned a prestigious silver ranking in the 2024 Times Higher Education (THE) Classification for e-learning programs, marking a significant milestone in the institution’s efforts to enhance the quality of online education. This newly introduced ranking by THE is designed to evaluate the effectiveness and excellence of online learning programs at universities worldwide, assessing their ability to deliver quality teaching through digital platforms.
The Times Higher Education e-learning ranking is a comprehensive evaluation that categorizes universities into three distinct tiers: gold, silver, and bronze. This ranking, which is part of a broader movement toward enhancing the global standards of online education, takes into account various factors related to the accessibility, quality, and overall student experience in digital learning environments. King Abdulaziz University’s silver ranking signifies its commitment to providing an exceptional and effective online learning experience for its students, earning it recognition on the global stage.
The evaluation is based on four key pillars that collectively assess the university’s digital offerings. The first pillar, Resources, accounts for 35% of the total score and measures the level of support allocated to online learning programs. This includes factors such as funding per student, the faculty-to-student ratio, and development hours per staff member. These indicators ensure that the university is adequately investing in its resources to provide a high-quality learning experience for online students.
The second pillar, Engagement, which contributes 30% to the ranking, measures how actively students participate in online learning. This includes surveys assessing teaching quality, peer interaction, and overall student satisfaction. High levels of engagement reflect not only the effectiveness of the courses but also the active involvement of students in their learning journey.
The third pillar, Outcomes, focuses on learning outcomes, such as graduation rates, academic progress, and student recommendations, contributing 20% to the total score. This pillar emphasizes the long-term success of students in online programs and evaluates whether the educational offerings prepare students for academic and professional achievements.
Lastly, the Environment pillar, which makes up 15% of the ranking, evaluates the overall learning environment. This includes access to technical support, available resources, and the diversity of students and faculty members. A strong, inclusive environment ensures that students have the necessary tools and support to succeed in an online setting.
King Abdulaziz University’s silver ranking highlights its continued efforts to enhance and expand its e-learning programs, positioning itself as a leader in online education. The university’s success in this ranking reflects its commitment to innovation and its recognition of the importance of adapting to the evolving needs of learners in the digital age. This recognition further strengthens KAU’s reputation as a global institution dedicated to academic excellence, while paving the way for future improvements in its digital offerings.