Medical Student’s Perception about Virtual Classroom during Lockdown - a Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: In the present scenario due to lockdown during the COVID-19 pandemic, online learning has become more prevalent all over the world. The sudden shift of the educational system from the traditional method of teaching to distance learning is one of the educational trials at present. Therefore it is required to know the student’s perspectives about virtual classrooms. Objectives: To analyze the perception of virtual classrooms among undergraduates and based on responses, necessary modifications are suggested to the university. Methodology: It was a cross-sectional study. Institutional ethical clearance was taken before the start of the study. After taking consent from the students, the semi-structured questionnaires were sent to them online. Results: In the present study, the perception of students with regards to the virtual classroom was good because it has many advantages like flexibility, accessibility from anywhere in the country. Conclusion: The present study concludes that the use of virtual classrooms has many advantages and disadvantages. But at the same time, students preferred the traditional method as the best method of teaching.