Pharmacy Students Perceptions of Their Distance Online Learning Experience During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Survey Study

Abstract

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic imposed dramatic changes on educational practices worldwide. Many universities and schools have moved into the delivery of their courses and educational programs utilizing fully electronic online modes. This study aims to evaluate the pharmacy student distance online learning experience during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was utilized where a 3-domain survey questionnaire focused on preparedness, attitude and barriers was distributed to students at the time of conclusion of the semester. Each domain consists of multiple questions that made up a score that reflects their preparedness, attitude as well as barriers relevant to distance online learning experience. The survey was voluntarily, and all data were collected and recorded via google forms with maintaining anonymity. Results: The response rate was about 75% (n = 309). The results’ analysis revealed no gender differences in any of these domains. However, there were some variable responses among different educational levels. The average preparedness score was 32.8 ± 7.2 (Max 45), the average attitude score was 66.8 ± 16.6 (Max 105), and the average barrier score was 43.6 ± 12.0 (Max 75). There was statistical significance difference in both preparedness score and attitude scores between different professional years ( P-value <.05). However, there was no difference in barrier scores among all professional years. The results indicated that about 61.4% of the students agreed on that college of pharmacy was well-prepared and ready for the online education during the emerging COVID-19 pandemic with complete transition into online education. The results also indicated that 49.2% of the students showed positive attitude toward the provided online learning. The results indicated that about 34% of the students identify some barriers toward the provided online learning. Finally, there were strong association between the need for training on how to receive online courses and preparedness and barriers scores. Discussion and conclusion: E-learning experience pose challenges and presents opportunities during emergency situations. The need for training for students and faculty was highly associated with the preparedness and barriers domains rather than the infrastructure or computer literacy, so the school can improve their experience by addressing these needs.

Jordanian University Students’ Attitudes toward Online Learning during the COVID-19 Pandemic and Lockdowns: Obstacles and Solutions

“…Recent research on eLearning during the COVID-19 pandemic worldwide has reported on the benefits of online platforms as an alternative to face-to-face classroom instruction (Agormedah, Henaku, Ayite & Ansah, 2020;Agung et al, 2020;Coolican et al, 2020;Febrianto et al, 2020;Kalloo et al, 2020;König et al, 2020;Shawaqfeh et al, 2020). However, students have reported encountering many obstacles during online lectures, namely internet interruptions and instability, and their inability to buy laptops, mobile phones and internet bundles necessary for their eLearning.…”

“…Interestingly, a large number of these Indonesian students had negative perceptions toward online learning. Shawaqfeh et al (2020) conducted an attitudinal study using a survey questionnaire to explore the attitudes of students at King Saud Bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences toward online learning, their preparedness for online instruction, and the obstacles they face in online learning. Results showed that students had positive attitudes toward online learning.…”

Knowledge, Attitude and Practice About Coronavirus Disease (COVID-19) Pandemic and Its Psychological Impact on Students and Their Studies: A Cross-Sectional Study Among Pharmacy Students in Saudi Arabia

“… 57 , 61 , 62 , 64 As a result of these efforts, as of 9th January 2021, there were only 363,692 confirmed cases and 6286 deaths in Saudi Arabia, 65 with preventative measures still in place. Online and distance learning at the schools and universities, 66 as well as working from home, has been facilitated by major investments in digitalization, technology and artificial intelligence in Saudi Arabia in line with its 2030 vision. 67 …”

Use of Concept Mapping to Identify Expectations of Pharmacy Students Selecting Elective Courses

“…Determination of student preference for delivery method is also important as an increasing number of pharmacy faculties are considering delivering courses in an online format. Several studies indicate that understanding and managing student expectations as well as ensuring student engagement may be even more important and challenging for online courses [ 23 , 24 , 25 , 26 ].…”