Study of effectiveness of online classes among undergraduate medical students during COVID-19 pandemic

Introduction: Due to the pandemic COVID-19 the medical education has shifted to the virtual mode in almost all the countries. Online learning is being practiced for quite some time and it has proved to be useful but its effectiveness should be anticipated for countries like India. Methods: An online survey was conducted among undergraduate medical and allied health students with the help of a structured self-administered questionnaire consisting of demographic information, modalities of online classes they are attending and their impression regarding the online classes. Results: Maximum students had access to devices and internet but some of the students responded that they have no internet facility at home. More than half of the students have responded that they are facing some sort of visual problem after online classes have commenced. Many students responded that the internet connectivity issue is a hindrance to online learning. Greater number of the students strongly disagree that online class should be continued even after the pandemic is over. Conclusion: There are lots of obstacles in virtual learning in resource-limited countries like ours. The efficiency of e-learning should be assessed among the students and the flaws of virtual learning are to be dealt by concerned authorities