Technology Utilization in Health Science Education during Covid-19: Experience from University of Sharjah

Introduction: The spread of the COVID-19 pandemic has overwhelmed the overall world causing not only a health crisis but affecting multiple industries and institutions like businesses, health care, transportation, economy, tourism, employment, and foremost education and students regardless of their age and educational level (Anaya, 2020). Students of almost all countries all over the world confined to those attending school online are currently facing lots of challenges and opportunities. we have decided to initiate such a research study focusing on the online learning experience since it has taken over the traditional learning pattern causing a lot of challenges and many more opportunities to students. Objective: To explore and grasp the challenges and opportunities of online learning that are encountered by University of Sharjah students. Results: The majority of the students (59%) found that online learning has affected their academic performance and 45% felt it was extremely stressful. 75% of students had concerns about their health & financial status. Around 43% do not feel engaged in their online course. 68% prefer paper-based exams. During in-depth interview most statements included “it's hard to stay motivated while you're at home as you can always get distracted”, “not as effective as traditional classes”, “I dread online learning; I'm not used to it … it's a very bad experience. Conclusion: Based on the results acquired the online learning experience was not the best experience for the university of Sharjah students a lot associated online learning with a very bad and stressful experience, many issues were addressed in the discussion regarding the technical issues, lack of face-to-face communication, lack of appropriate study environment, lack of motivation and passion for studying and keeping up with online courses and a lot more.