How COVID-19 kick-started online learning in medical education-The DigiMed study

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Digital Learning
• Higher Education

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated rapid curriculum shifts in medical schools towards online learning.
• Few institutions had prior experience with large-scale online educational models.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate medical students' attitudes towards online learning during the pandemic.
• To establish a scientific basis for future medical education development.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional, web-based study involving 3286 medical students from 12 countries.
• Utilized a 7-point Likert scale to assess satisfaction with online learning, technical/social aspects, and future role.

Main Results:

• 78% of medical schools successfully transitioned to online learning; 67% satisfied with quantity, 62% with quality.
• 84% reported increased flexibility; 70% noted unchanged/higher attendance. Downsides: motivation (42%), interaction (67%), social isolation (64%).
• 80% comfortable with software; 78% believe medical education lags in online capabilities. Students desire ~40% online vs. on-site ratio.

Conclusions:

• Medical students exhibit a positive attitude towards online learning, valuing its flexibility.
• A significant gap exists between student demand for online learning and current curriculum offerings.
• The COVID-19 pandemic may accelerate the adoption of an "online era" in medical education.