Predictive Factors of Positive E-Learning Experience.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Digital Health
• Family Medicine Training

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of electronic learning (e-learning) in medical education.
• Factors like internet access, age, and technology adoption influence perceptions of e-learning.
• Understanding educator perspectives is crucial for optimizing digital learning environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess family medicine educators' satisfaction, effectiveness, and feasibility perceptions of e-learning.
• To identify demographic factors influencing attitudes toward e-learning.
• To determine key aspects of e-learning important to educators.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional survey was distributed in Fall 2020 to members of the Council of Academic Family Medicine's (CAFM) Educational Research Alliance (CERA).
• The survey collected data on e-learning perceptions and demographic information.
• Response rate was 20.1% (n=862).

Main Results:

• Overall satisfaction (40.4%), feasibility (47.8%), and goal achievement (24.2%) varied among educators.
• No significant differences in satisfaction, feasibility, or effectiveness were found based on generation, introversion/extroversion, or technology adopter status.
• Interactive capabilities were the most critical factors for satisfaction (55.9%) and effectiveness (62.0%).

Conclusions:

• Family medicine educators' perceptions of e-learning are diverse, with no clear demographic divides in satisfaction, feasibility, or effectiveness.
• Interactive features are paramount for successful e-learning implementation in medical education.
• Further research is needed to explore student and learner viewpoints on e-learning.