Perspectives of the faculty towards digital learning at Rawalpindi Medical University amid covid-19 pandemic

ABSTRACT

Objective: To determine the viewpoints of the faculty members about digital learning at Rawalpindi Medical University (RMU) during COVID pandemic. Methodology: This cross-sectional descriptive study was carried out during August 2020 among 89 faculty members of RMU with diverse designation. Data were collected by using digitally administered Google forms based on 5 point likert scale through convenience sampling. Information was gathered regarding perceived advantages and key troubles faced in smooth execution of online teaching. Data analysis was done with SPSS version 25.0. Results: Of the total 89 faculty members, 30.4% were demonstrators, 23.6% Senior Registrars and 21.3% Assistant Professors. About 87% faculty agreed with adequate curriculum coverage during online teaching, 84% found MS Teams interface user friendly while 82% conveniently generated link for their online class. About 38% faculty confronted with internet connectivity issues while 40% were satisfied with students’ response during online class. Only 22% respondents agreed with impartiality of online assessments and judgment of competencies. Conclusion: Digital learning greatly facilitated in academic continuity during pandemic. However, provision of broad band internet facility, making sessions interactive and using diverse online assessment modalities can be helpful to much extent in justified appraisal of clinical competencies. © 2022, Pakistan Medical Association. All rights reserved.