The effectiveness of synchronous online clinics and conventional clinics among medical students: Assessing the influence of e-learning.

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic presented challenges that led to the development of on-line learning, emphasizing how important it is for students to have access to quality education. This study was conducted to compare the efficacy of synchronous on-line and conventional clinics and the perception of students. This study was conducted over 12 months from November 2020. A total of 78 Phase 4 students were divided into six batches by convenient sampling based on roll numbers; each batch was again subdivided into two: Group A received conventional clinics and Group B received on-line synchronous clinics. Postsession multiple choice questions (MCQs) were conducted immediately after the session and again 2 weeks later to avoid recall bias. Perception was analyzed by Likert scale. The unpaired t-test was utilized for normally distributed continuous data and the Mann-Whitney U test for non-normally distributed or ordinal data to conduct statistical comparisons between the two groups. The assessment of e-learning between the two groups showed no significant difference, although the online group exhibited comparatively lower recall test scores compared to their post-test scores, even if not reach statistical significance. A significantly higher proportion of students in the conventional group expressed confidence in their exam performance and believed that traditional sessions were preferable for future learning endeavors. Most medical students stated that they preferred conventional clinics over e-learning education. Students felt that there was a difference between these two teaching methods' perceived efficacy and general attitudes.