Online teaching and learning during COVID era: Medical students’ feedback and their perspectives

Purpose The Nationwide lockdown due to COVID-19 has prompted medical faculty all across Indian sub-continent to start online classes, with no prior sensitization and experience. This study was planned to assess the perceptions of medical students on online teaching. Methods The data was collected from medical students across India, through an anonymous online survey. Their feedback and perceptions regarding online teaching were recorded and analyzed. Results Of the 1256 complete responses received, > 60% of the students reported online lectures to be less interesting, less interactive and less engaging.They disagreed that online learning gives stronger sense of community among students and are capable of replacing the traditional didactic lecture format but were of the opinion that online learning encourages medical students to exert greater control over their learning by allowing flexibility over content and pace.The majority of students felt online teaching is a better opportunity for introvert students to express themselves through chat messages and it requires more self-direction and discipline. Conclusion The results showed that students were not much satisfied with online teaching. The possible reason could be lack of awareness of faculty about the available online teaching-learning strategies. To make online teaching more interesting and interactive, medical educators should more often engage in E-learning in an effort to come up with innovative approaches to train medical students.Teachers must undergo faculty development training to learn the use of technology in teaching. Students should also be sensitized on the various online tools available for learning and assessment.