A Study on the Advantages and Disadvantages of the Online Teaching Program Conducted in the Department of Anatomy, AIIMS, Raipur – Students' Perspective

Background: Medical education in India always relied on the traditional classroom method of teaching. The current COVID pandemic brought a situation where online classes have taken precedence over the traditional classroom teaching. Here we attempt to see from the students' perspective whether online classes can replace the traditional classroom teaching. Aims and objectives: We aimed to study the advantages and disadvantages of online learning. Materials and methods: Online live streamed classes using Free Conference Call app were held in the Department of Anatomy, AIIMS Raipur. Live streaming, pre-recorded lecture videos were supplemented by cadaveric dissection videos, assignments etc posted in Google Classroom. Feedback regarding the online classes were obtained from first year undergraduate medical students using Google Forms. Results: A total of 72 students responded to the survey. 57 students used mobile phones to access the classes. 10 students preferred the online classes with chalk and board lecture, 23 students preferred lecture with PowerPoint presentation while the rest preferred online classes with chalk and board lecture followed by PowerPoint presentation. Out of the total (n=72) respondents, majority of them experienced technical issues which hampered their online learning experience. Owing to this reason, 43 students showed preference for pre-recorded videos over online live classes. 41.7% of the students opined that online classes should be included as a part of MBBS anatomy curriculum. Conclusion: Online learning in the form of live classes and recorded videos can be included as a part of routine Anatomy curriculum but it can never be a substitute for interactive face to face classroom learning and practical session.