Students’ preparedness and perception toward online learning in dental education – A cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background: Amid the health risk posed by coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, all the educational institutions in India have adopted online teaching as a method of imparting education. Thus, the current study was executed to evaluate the perception and preparedness of dental students toward online learning in dental education. Materials and Methods: The present cross-sectional study was conducted on 286 dental undergraduate (UG) and postgraduate (PG) students employing a pretested questionnaire. The questionnaire focused on technological access, computer and online skills, and motivational skills to use e-learning for educational purpose. The response scale for each domain was classified into low readiness level (mean value = 1–<3), acceptable/moderate readiness level (mean value = 3–<4), and high readiness level (mean value = 4–5). Results: The results showed a high level of computer (4.02 ± 0.73) and online skills (4.05 ± 0.70) and acceptable levels of technology access (3.62 ± 0.73) and motivational level (3.61 ± 0.82). There was a significant difference in computer (P = 0.017) and online skills (P = 0.044) among UG and PG students, with PG students reporting better soft skills. Majority of the students reported participating in online workshops (68.2%) and examinations (76.6%). Around 55.2% of the students reported a positive impact and 8% reported a very positive impact of online methods on their learning. Conclusion: Students showed a high level of readiness toward e-learning methods along with some difficulties faced during e-learning.

E-learning readiness among dental students and faculty: a comparative study before and after the COVID-19 pandemic

“…One student actually reported that his ability to grasp concepts during e-learning session is significantly reduced compared to face-to-face instruction. These concerns align with previous studies that have identified similar challenges faced by students in e-learning environments ( 20–22 ). In fact, prior literature has shown that prolonged engagement with online platforms can lead to e-learning fatigue, which affects both faculty and students ( 22–26 ).…”

The Impact of a Web-Based Restorative Dentistry Course on the Learning Outcomes of Dental Graduates: Pre-Experimental Study

“…In recent years, web-based learning, also known as e-learning, has gained popularity as a method of delivering education in dentistry, thanks to technological advancements [ 5 , 6 ]. This approach provides learners with access to a wealth of information while offering the flexibility to learn at their own pace, overcoming the limitations of time and space [ 7 ].…”