E-Learning Acceptance During the Covid-19 Outbreak: A Cross-sectional Study

The rise of Covid-19 raised several concerns for the educational policymakers and stakeholders all over the world, including Pakistan. During the pandemic, institutional closure was the only solution to hamper the virus spread. However, the adoption of E-learning largely sustained educational activities, raises several questions about its effectiveness. This study examines E-learning acceptance during the Covid-19 outbreak in Pakistan. It employed cross-sectional design and a random sample of n = 314 students from Sahiwal Medical College, Sahiwal, Pakistan. The researcher further applied Media Dependency Theory to provide support to the conceptual model Theory. Findings indicated a strong significant relationship between students’ positive perceptions towards E-learning during Covid-19. Respondents considered E-learning as an effective substitute for the traditional learning environment, leading to improved academic performance. The implications of the study lean on the fact that using E-learning during in unforeseen times has not only highlighted the role of internet-based learning, but it has also demonstrated a greater dependence on new media technology. We suggest that, suggesting that E-learning is a potential solution to the problem of sustaining educational activities during institutional closure.