Promoting and enabling higher education through open and distance learning: Towards a national policy and effective implementation of e-learning in Libya

E-learning and distance education have increasingly become essential components of higher education in Libya. The Libyan Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research has initiated efforts to rebuild the national education system and promote the integration of e-learning across universities. This scoping review synthesizes published research from 2000 to 2024, focusing on the effectiveness of e-learning, implementation strategies, challenges, and recommendations for improvement. The review analyzes studies that explore student attitudes, barriers to adoption, e-learning models, and the adoption of learning management systems (LMS). Libyan higher education institutions must address technology-related decisions before implementing e-learning strategies. Beyond questions concerning the type and quantity of hardware and software required, institutions must also consider how to support new technologies effectively. It is essential for universities to determine how to utilize technology as an effective educational tool aligned with their specific learning contexts and to transform current teaching and learning methods in accordance with e-learning models. Findings indicate that while e-learning enhances accessibility and flexibility, challenges such as infrastructure limitations, faculty resistance, and policy gaps must be addressed to ensure successful implementation. Therefore, there is an urgent need to conduct further studies on e-learning in Libyan universities to expand knowledge, bridge existing gaps, and propose well-defined programs and implementation plans.