Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the development of the bachelor’s thesis

Abstract

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic has affected university processes and theses are no exception. The closure of universities and virtual sessions has altered the process of preparing a thesis.

Objective: Identify the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the preparation, development and execution of the undergraduate thesis.

Method: A descriptive study was designed that included graduates of the Faculty of Dentistry of the Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos (Lima-Peru). The survey technique was used through a questionnaire with virtual open questions. Analysis categories included: impact on thesis development, challenges experienced, and coping strategies.

Results: 42 graduates were surveyed, 55% women. The impact was perceived in the selection of the study topic, execution of the thesis project, acquisition of resources, administrative processes, coordination with the thesis advisor, adaptation to a new investigative technique, loss of motivation, interest in topics other than the thesis and impact on mental health. Thesis students state that they have applied some strategies to face the impact of the pandemic: modify their investigative technique, adapt environments for the execution of in vitro experiments, more frequent meetings with advisers and friends in a virtual way.

Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic has affected the undergraduate thesis of the Faculty of Dentistry. This impact has affected the selection of the study topic, execution of the thesis project, acquisition of resources and administrative processes.