## 2 Literature Review  
### Definition of Online Learning  
Online learning is a practice that has been widely discussed for over a decade. Several authors extensively examined the subject during the 1990s. For example, in 1995, ref. [18] performed a study to assess the effectiveness and impact of online learning in graduate education at George Washington University. In addition, [PERSON] [19] conducted research on online learning from a sociocultural perspective in 1998. The purpose was to identify the factors that influenced a computer-based English as a Second Language writing course at Miller College in Hawaii. These factors include the complex dynamics between the teacher, researcher, and students. Besides that, [PERSON] [20] designed a framework called Virtual-U for distance learning in 1999. This framework facilitates active learning, cooperative work, diverse viewpoints, and knowledge-building through a range of instructional methods, such as seminars, collaborative projects, and laboratory exercises.  
The early emergence of the concept of online learning led to a unified understanding of the definition of online learning. Various pieces of research generally define online learning as a method of delivering educational materials over the internet in the form of online videos, virtual meetings, and digital quizzes. That is, online learning courses can be delivered in two ways: synchronously through interactive online sessions or asynchronously, allowing students and instructors to engage without the need for simultaneous presence. In asynchronous distance learning, students are able to access educational resources without being restricted by time or location [6; 21].  
Online learning has been used interchangeably with terms such as e-learning, distance learning, and distance education [22]. For instance, [PERSON] et al. [5] employed the term \"distance learning\" interchangeably with \"online learning\" while examining distance learning in Saudi Arabia both prior to and following the COVID-19 pandemic. Moreover, [PERSON] [23] exclusively employed the term \"distance learning\" to study the limitations and advantages of shifting from traditional classrooms to distance learning. AlthoughSadeghi [23] did not explicitly employ the phrase \"online learning\", the definition of distance learning aligns with the definition of online learning presented in the preceding paragraph. Additionally, [PERSON] [24] used the term \"e-learning\" similarly to online learning as he assessed the cost and effectiveness of online learning compared to traditional teaching methods.  
[PERSON] and [PERSON] [25] held distinct perspectives regarding the utilization of the terms e-learning, distance learning, and blended learning in relation to online learning. They categorized these terms as forms of online learning rather than synonymous phrases. Furthermore, they incorporated blended learning as an additional category. [PERSON] and [PERSON] [25] defined e-learning as the use of technologies, including CDs, software, and educational applications, in the education process. Distance learning is defined in their paper as a method of providing educational materials asynchronously through the internet without requiring physical contact between educators and learners. On the contrary, blended learning is an educational method that integrates e-learning, distance learning, and traditional learning methods to offer students a flexible and interactive education.  
The previous discussion provided an overview of the general definitions of online learning, as well as the various types and synonyms of online learning from several perspectives. The paper will use e-learning, online learning, and distance learning interchangeably. The following section will explore online learning within the context of Saudi Arabia.