Medical and nursing students' perceptions of online learning and pandemic preparedness during COVID-19 in Singapore

Introduction: During the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic in Singapore, clinical attachments for medical and nursing students were temporarily suspended and replaced with online learning. It is unclear how the lack of clinical exposure and the switch to online learning has affected them. This study aims to explore their perceptions of online learning and their preparedness to COVID-19 as clinical postings resumed. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among undergraduate and graduate medical and nursing students from three local universities, using an online self-administered survey evaluating the following: (1) demographics; (2) attitudes towards online learning; (3) anxieties; (4) coping strategies; (5) perceived pandemic preparedness; and (6) knowledge about COVID-19. Results: A total of 316 responses were analysed. 81% agreed with the transition to online learning, most citing the need to finish academic requirements and the perceived safety of studying at home. More nursing students than medical students (75.2% vs 67.5% p=0.019) perceived they had received sufficient infection control training. Both groups had good knowledge and coping mechanisms towards COVID-19. Conclusions: This study demonstrated that medical and nursing students were generally receptive to this unprecedented shift to online learning. They appear pandemic ready and can be trained to play an active part in future outbreaks.