Experiences and Challenges of Educators and Learners During COVID-19; A Qualitative Phenomenology Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.52206/jsmc.2025.15.1.966Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 pandemic transformed healthcare education, shifting medical and dental fields to online learning due to lockdowns. Transitioning practical disciplines online posed significant challenges.
Objective: To assess the consequences of covid-19 on the clinical and communication skills of medical and dental students in Peshawar, Pakistan.
Materials and Methods: This qualitative study employed a phenomenological research design, using semi-structured interviews and focus group discussions. Purposive sampling included thirteen faculty interviews and three student focus groups from dental and medical schools in Peshawar, Pakistan. Descriptive content analysis identified themes from the transcripts.
Results: Six themes emerged: challenges in online teaching and learning, communication skills, hands-on clinical skills, assessments, psychological well-being, and comparisons between face-to-face and online learning. Students expressed concerns about the pandemic's impact on their clinical skill development and exam rescheduling, which affected their mental well-being and learning. While didactic lectures were satisfactory, students preferred traditional sessions, finding online learning challenging due to its unfamiliarity. Online assessments, particularly of psychomotor and affective skills, were problematic, and many students experienced psychological distress due to uncertainties about their future practice.
Conclusion: Effective online education depends on resource access, as the pandemic highlighted the digital divide's impact on academic success. Continuous support and training in online tools, ensuring internet connectivity, and providing necessary devices are essential for educators and learners. Addressing the digital gap is crucial to ensure equal access to resources in educational institutions.
Keywords: Challenges, Covid 19, learners, Medical teachers, Students.
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