Attitude and perception of dental students towards computer-mediated learning during COVID-19 pandemic in Central India

Context: Due to emergence of COVID-19 pandemic, educational institutions were ordered to be closed to protect students from viral exposure. The mode of teaching had to be shifted from face-to-face to digital learning to complete the prescribed syllabi in a stipulated time period. Aim: This study aimed to assess the attitude and perception of undergraduate dental students towards computer-mediated teaching during COVID-19 pandemic. Settings and Design: After obtaining informed consent, a questionnaire study was conducted online using Google Forms among undergraduate students of dental colleges in Central India. Methods and Material: A standard pre-tested questionnaire in English was used, which consisted of 3 parts. The first part recorded demographic data, second part evaluated learning and third part assessed the attitude of the students to computer-mediated learning. Statistical analysis used: 1045 students participated in the study. Learning and Attitude Score was calculated and mean score was compared between groups using ANOVA. Results: Most of the students (above 80%) believed the modern education is inconceivable without computer technology. However, only about 30% believed that such teaching can substitute traditional way of learning. Those with advanced skills in computers reported to have better experience with computer-mediated learning (p<0.05).&nbsp