Perspectives of Students and Educators on the Effects of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Undergraduate Dental Education

Abstract Objectives: The novel coronavirus pandemic has become a real challenge for provision of dental education. The aim of this survey study was to evaluate the opinions of dental faculty educators and students about online education after e-learning experience. Materials and Methods: The research was conducted on educators and 4th and 5th grade students at XXXXX University, Faculty of Dentistry. Questionnaire items for educators and students were categorized into the following factors: educators’/students’ personal and professional skills and attitudes towards online education, online theoretical education, online practical training, online exams, handling and quality of education during pandemic. The data obtained was recorded as percentage (%) and interpreted. Results: 52 (73%) educators participated in this survey study. 50% of them said online courses were not as successful as face-to-face learning. Moreover, 40% of the educators stated that shortened class times were not sufficient to convey the course content. 74% of the participants expressed belief that online exams do not properly gauge students’ lesson comprehension. In addition, 281 students (75%) participated in this survey study. 32% of the students stated that they easily adapted to online education conditions. However, 84% of the students stated that they do not think that online education increased their clinical skills. Conclusions: The results of this study showed that academicians hold a negative view of distance learning as they think online theoretical courses, practical training and exams impaired the quality of learning. On the other hand, dentistry students have a positive attitude towards online theoretical education but are concerned about clinical skill acquisition.