Assessment of the Academic Satisfaction of Graduate Students During the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic, In An Internal Medicine Department.

Abstract

BackgroundDuring the SARS-CoV-2/ COVID-19 pandemic, academic activities have been adjusted to include virtual components. The impact on student satisfaction with their medical education, especially in graduate programs, is unknown.MethodsThe Internal Medicine Department of the Pontificia Universidad Javeriana and the Hospital Universitario San Ignacio, in Bogotá (Colombia), converted multiple theoretical academic activities to virtual modality, and modified the practical activities using technological platforms that allow remote participation of residents or teachers. A survey was designed to evaluate the satisfaction of residents in relation to the theoretical and practical components, and the perception of change.Results48 residents responded the survey. > 72 % reported being partially or totally satisfied with the organization, content of the activities, interdisciplinary approach and opportunity to discuss topics for the theoretical activities. When evaluating the care activities, 21.9 % of the residents reported not being satisfied with the preparation that those activities give for clinical practice and professional life, and 31.3 % with the interdisciplinary approach, and time to discuss the cases. > 72.9 % were satisfied with the technological tools used. The level of perceived stress worsened for 62.5 %, and the opportunity to develop and practice skills worsened for 64.6 % of those surveyed.ConclusionsDespite the high satisfaction with the theoretical activities and the technological tools used, residents consider that the implementation of remote academic activities is associated with higher levels of stress and fewer opportunities to develop and practice clinical skills. New strategies are needed to improve practical components while maintaining social distancing.