Evaluation of satisfaction in undergraduate medical students of Tabriz University of Medical Sciences about virtual education in 1399-1400

Abstract

Medical education at medical universities, including Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, was impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to the use of virtual education as a means to continue educational activities. This study examines medical students' satisfaction with virtual education during the pandemic and their willingness to continue this mode of education. Methods: In this exploratory study, a questionnaire was developed and psychometrically evaluated. After reviewing literature and sharing insights from experts, the questionnaire was designed with multiple-choice and open-ended questions. Validity and reliability were assessed using responses from medical education specialists. Validity was confirmed with Impact Score=4.78, CVR=0.91, and CVI=0.99. Internal consistency of the questionnaire items was measured with a Cronbach's alpha of 0.83, and stability of results was confirmed through a test-retest method involving a random sample of students completing the questionnaire on two occasions, yielding an ICC of 0.96. Subsequently, a descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in 2022 to evaluate students' satisfaction with virtual education during the years 2020-2021. The target population consisted of medical students at Tabriz University of Medical Sciences who underwent their internship through virtual education during the pandemic. Data were collected from 197 medical students. Results indicated that 69.5% of students considered time-saving as the main advantage of virtual education. Results: issues such as poor internet quality (97%), reduced opportunities for clarification (79.7%), and lower engagement (66.5%) compared to in-person classes were reported. Additionally, 66% of students opposed conducting solely in-person classes and preferred a combination of virtual and in-person education.