Modification of academic activities of medical students during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the world, changing how we live and learn. Medical education was particularly affected by suspending in-person activities to prevent infections. As a result, various modalities and strategies were developed and implemented to adapt to the new situation.

Objective: to describe the academic and evaluation activities of Medicine fifth-year medical students during the COVID-19 pandemic in Mexico.

Method: A self-administered questionnaire of 40 questions was applied to collect information about their educational institution’s academic and evaluation activities during the pandemic. The variables were described using the median, interquartile range, frequency, and proportion. The immediate proportions test was performed to evaluate differences between sexes.

Results: Of the 541 participants, more than 80.0% reported interrupting medical and surgical training activities and modifying hospital rotations. Although 86.9% completed the activities online, only 38.5% felt satisfied with the experience. The most frequently used evaluation methods were exams, session participation, and a portfolio of evidence. In addition, a significant increase in the school average was observed during the return to in-person classes.

Conclusions: The results of this study demonstrate the necessary changes that academic institutions in the health area implemented to adapt to the pandemic. Online and hybrid education has opened opportunities for pedagogical innovation and for exploring effective learning and assessment strategies that allow the development of competencies in health students despite epidemiological conditions.