Real Versus Virtual Classes: A Perspective from Medical Undergraduate Student’s Point of View with Their Effectiveness in Learning

Real Versus Virtual Classes: Student’s Perspective

Abstract

Objective: In March 2020, a nationwide lockdown due to the spread of Covid-19 infection in India was declared. To continue the learning process, the Medical Universities of India adopted an online method of learning. This article aims to compare online live classes and traditional face-to-face classes based on the opinions of MBBS undergraduates of South India and determine the acceptability of either of the methods.

Methods: Online survey of 364 MBBS Undergraduates (UGs) of medical colleges of South India was conducted using a questionnaire. A validated questionnaire produced on google form which contains 16 questions was mailed to all the participants. Their replies were noted, and statistical evaluation was done on drawbacks, benefits, and preferences based on their valuable opinions.

Results: A total of 364 UG students participated in the online survey willingly. 87.16% proportion of students used Microsoft Teams for online classes. 35.71% had a good experience with online classes. Main advantage of online classes was Comfort (28.41%). Main disadvantage of online classes was Internet issues (26.49%). Out of 364 UG students, 71.43% felt Physical Classes were better than online classes. Main advantage of physical classes was attentiveness (23.42%). Main disadvantage was compromised social distancing (19.84%). A total of 37% UGs preferred online classes while 63% preferred physical classes.

Conclusion: From our study there are both pros and cons for physical and online mode of teaching. But UGs students preferred physical classes more as compared to online mode.