The opinions of physiotherapy students on online anatomy education during Covid-19 pandemic

Abstract

Objectives: The aim of the present study was to explore the physiotherapy students’ attitudes towards online anatomy education during Covid-19 pandemic and thus to evaluate the possibile alternatives to improve online anatomy education. Methods: Sixty-four out of 78 first term physiotheraphy students (82%) participated in the study. Students were asked to participate voluntarily in an online survey composed of a Likert’s scale questionnaire. Results: The allocated study time of the students for Anatomy course decreased during the pandemic when compared to the time before the pandemic (p=0.014). The statement which was marked as ‘Totally Agree’ at the highest rate (46.9%) was ‘The questions given within the scope of the theoretical exam were consistent with the course contents’. The students also decided that the questions given within the scope of the theoretical exam were qualified to evaluate their level of anatomy. The marking rate of ‘Totally Agree’ option for this statement was 42.2%. In addition, the students ‘Totally agree’ at a rate of 40.6% that they felt less stressed in the exams of this course when compared to the first semester. Conclusion: It is anticipated that interactive lectures would be more helpful to teach anatomy. Moreover, it seems that anatomy education in physiotherapy and rehabilitation departments may need revisions to improve online anatomy education.