Abstract

Dr. V. Venkata Surekha*, Dr. P. Radha Kumari and Dr. R. Nageswar Rao

ABSTRACT

Introduction: To prevent the further spread of COVID-19, The Government of India declared nationwide lockdown on 25th march 2020, including the temporary closure of educational institutions leading to educational disruption3.The present study was conducted to assess the impact of this e- learning programmes on the learning status of medical and nonmedical undergraduate students. Objectives 1. To compare the differences in learning status of the medical and non medical graduates. 2. To assess the impact of e-learning programmes on the learning status of undergraduate students. Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted from 20th-27thDecember 2020 among medical (129) and nonmedical students (156) of which were from 2 medical colleges and 4 degree colleges of Andhra Pradesh which were selected randomly. All the students who gave consent and attended the online classes during the lockdown period were included in the study. Data was collected by using pretested self designed semi-structured questionnaire. Results: A total of 285 students participated in the study. Among the medical students 86% (111), and in non medical students 94% (146) participated in e-learning programme. Google classroom and zoom app are the two most commonly used platforms among the students. Most commonly used gadget for online classes is Android mobile i.e around 91% in medical and 89% in nonmedical students. 92% of medical students said that online exams were conducted whereas in nonmedical students it is said to be 57%.About 85% of medical and 63% of nonmedical students spent less time for studying than normal situations. Conclusion: These e-learning programmes benefitted in the difficult situation to most of the students but the students unable to get the full benefits due to economic constraints.