Osama Habib, Muhammad Atif Qureshi, Zahid Latif, Munaza Javed, Khalid Mahmood, Usman Amin Hotiana.
Medical Students\' Perception of Online Learning - a Mixed Method Study.
J Sharif Med Dent Coll Jan ;7(02):90-7.

Objective: To investigate medical students' views and opinions about the experience of online learning during the lockdown period. Methodology: It was a mixed method study conducted at Azra Naheed Medical College, Lahore. Students of MBBS from 1st to final year were invited to complete a self-developed online survey. Participation was solely on voluntary basis. The survey was anonymous and consisted of 15 questions with multiple options and two open-ended questions in addition to three questions about demographics. Results: A total of 407 students participated in the study. The main problems with the online learning experience were communication difficulties, no hands-on training, internet connectivity problems, and health problems related to the extended use of electronic devices. The main advantages of online learning were being able to use other resources simultaneously, being more at ease, feeling less shy asking questions, and being able to focus more. Students' suggestions to improve the online learning experience were to upload pre-recorded video lectures, provide improved internet access, equip teachers with the necessary training, provide study materials prior to the online teaching activity, and ensure greater participation of students in online learning activities. Conclusion: A majority of students were unhappy with online learning but a significant number found it comparable to or better than on-campus learning. Online learning can, perhaps, not replace on-campus learning but can be a useful addition to traditional medical education. The experience of online learning can be improved by incorporating students' suggestions in the development of future online learning systems. Keywords: Medical education. Medical students. Online learning.

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