Motivational factors for on-line distance learning an empirical investigation

Today, with the rapid social and financial changes is an increasing demand for distance and online learning. This study is part of a wider research project aims to propose a framework for understanding motivators, barriers, and enablers for successful online distance education program application. This paper shed some light on identifying the main motivational factors for choosing a distance and online learning program. Moreover, it will investigate how these factors relate to age, gender and parenthood. The results are based on a questionnaire, conducted amongst beginner students enrolled in the distance-learning program provided by E-learning and Distance Education Deanship at Al-Imam Muhammad bin Saud University during the summer semester of 2013. The survey aims to determine students´ motives besides their background characteristics.