Follow-Up Survey on Smart Device Use and Burnout Among Health Science Educators After COVID-19

Area of Science:

• Health Professions Education
• Occupational Health
• Digital Health

Background:

• Smart device use among health science educators has raised concerns regarding stress and burnout.
• A 2014 study established baseline perceptions of stress and health among these educators.
• The COVID-19 pandemic significantly altered educational practices and technology reliance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To replicate a 2014 study on smart device use, stress, and burnout in health science educators.
• To compare smart device usage and associated well-being before and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
• To assess the influence of precautionary measures on smart device usage patterns.

Main Methods:

• Surveys were distributed to program directors across accredited health science disciplines.
• The study assessed changes in smart device use, stress, and health effects since 2014.
• The Maslach Burnout Inventory-Educators Survey (MBI-ES) was utilized for burnout assessment.

Main Results:

• Scores for emotional exhaustion and depersonalization decreased compared to 2014 data.
• Personal accomplishment scores showed a decrease in the current study (2024) compared to pre-pandemic levels.
• Data suggests a complex impact of the pandemic on educator well-being and technology integration.

Conclusions:

• A reduction in burnout (emotional exhaustion, depersonalization) was observed post-pandemic.
• Lower personal accomplishment scores indicate a potential decline in educators' sense of efficacy.
• Developing strategies to balance technology integration with educator well-being is crucial for sustained quality education.