Virtual Learning of Anatomy in the Times of Pandemic: A Questionnaire Based Study

Abstract

Objective: The present study was aimed to investigate students’ perspective on the virtual teaching and learning of human anatomy during COVID-19 pandemic.

Study type, settings & duration: This was a cross-sectional study and was conducted by the Department of Anatomy, Liaquat National Hospital and Medical College, Karachi from August to September 2021.   

Methodology: A self-designed questionnaire was prepared and distributed among the students of 1st and 2nd year MBBS, who were exposed to the online teaching methodology during lock down imposed by government. This questionnaire was composed of demographic details of participants, their reflection on virtual learning and problems faced during the online sessions. The data was later translated on excel and SPSS 23 was used to analyze the results.

Results: The findings of the present study revealed majority of the participants (47.8%) were laptop users for seeking the virtual classes. They do not find this learning experience as effective as face-to-face classes and expressed that neither theoretical nor practical aspects of anatomy could be learnt effectively online. They listed technical issues like slow internet speed and connectivity errors as barriers during the course of study. However, the respondents (3.33±0.94 & 3.01±1.07) found that the sessions were well-organized, they saved students time and continued the process of learning despite of the strict COVID-19 restrictions.

Conclusion: Virtual teachings continued the learning process during the pandemic but they cannot be a replacement of real class-room experience. The traditional anatomy teaching remains the most preferred and effective teaching modality among students.