Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1 Department of Psychiatric Nursing, School of Nursing, Khoy University of Medical Sciences, Khoy, Iran
2 Department of Pediatric Nursing, School of Nursing, Khoy University of Medical Sciences, Khoy, Iran
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: With the unintended closure of classrooms following the outbreak of COVID‑19, the
virtual education method is used as an alternative to face‑to‑face education. Virtual education is one
of the important factors in promoting the learning of medical students and has many benefits such as
increasing the ability of critical thinking, problem‑solving skills, and self‑directed learning. However,
critically examining students’ perceptions of e‑learning can help improve quality and better planning.
MATERIALS AND METHODS: This research was a qualitative study. Twelve students were enrolled
in the study based on purposive sampling. Data were collected using in‑depth semi‑structured
interviews in 2020. All interviews were recorded and then transcribed and analyzed using a continuous
comparison and conventional content analysis approach.
RESULTS: Data analysis revealed four main themes and ten subthemes. The main themes included
“student concern,” “teacher barriers,” “technology weakness,” and “asynchronous virtual learning
flexibility.”
CONCLUSION: Asynchronous e‑learning in the COVID‑19 outbreak had its advantages and
disadvantages. By analyzing students’ perceptions in this field, some better designs and planning
can be done to increase the quality of education.
Keywords
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