Students’ attitudes toward digital learning during the COVID-19 pandemic: A survey conducted following an online course in gynecology and obstetrics

Abstract Purpose The purpose of this survey was to assess medical students’ opinions about online learning programs and their preferences for specific teaching formats.MethodsBetween May and July 2020, medical students who took an online gynecology and obstetrics course were asked to fill in a questionnaire anonymously. The questionnaire solicited their opinions about the course, the teaching formats used (online lectures, video tutorials featuring real patient scenarios, and online practical skills training), and digital learning in general.Results Of 103 students, 98 (98 %) submitted questionnaires that were included in the analysis. Eighty-four (86 %) students had no problem with the online course and 70 (72 %) desired more online teaching in the future. Thirty-seven (38 %) respondents preferred online to traditional lectures. Seventy-two (74 %) students missed learning with real patients. All digital teaching formats received good and excellent ratings from >80 % of the students.ConclusionThe survey results reflect medical students’ broad acceptance of the online course and indicate that digital learning options can partially replace conventional face-to-face teaching. Especially for theoretical content, such as that taught via lectures, online teaching might be an alternative or complement to traditional education. In contrast, skill development and the application of practical knowledge still need a patient-centered structure.