The Satisfaction of Online Learning on Dentistry Students during COVID-19: The Faculty of Dentistry, Srinakharinwirot University

Objectives: To assess the level of satisfaction with online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic among dental students and lecturers at the Faculty of Dentistry, Srinakharinwirot University, Thailand. Methods: A cross-sectional study based on an e-questionnaire (Google Forms®) distributed to dental students (n=427) and lecturers (n=67) from September to November 2022. Demographic data, experience and satisfaction with online learning were surveyed. Cronbach's alpha was calculated using the validity test of the questionnaire. Statistical analysis was descriptive and a t-test and ANOVA were performed (SPSS, p<0.05). Results: The response rate was 53.43%. There was a statistically significant difference in the level of satisfaction with online learning during COVID-19 between students and lecturers (p<0.01). There was a statistically significant difference in satisfaction scores for the interactive aspects of online learning (p<0.01). Satisfaction scores of postgraduate students tended to be the highest of all groups while the lecturer’s scores showed the least satisfaction. Perceptions of the advantages of online learning were at a good level in all groups. Conclusions: Online learning was beneficial for learning continuity during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly as a replacement for in-person lectures. The causes of dissatisfaction among lecturers should be further studied.