Author ORCID Identifier

https://orcid.org/0009-0007-8501-5875

Date of Award

11-17-2023

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Respiratory Therapy

First Advisor

Lynda Goodfellow

Second Advisor

Kyle Brandenberger

Third Advisor

Shi Huh Samuel Shan

Abstract

Background: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, electronic learning (E-learning) has emerged as the primary method for delivering educational materials, particularly within the scope of Saudi Arabian (SA) Respiratory Therapy (RT) education. PURPOSE: To evaluate the perception of E-learning among RT students in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) by comparing face-to-face learning to E-learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey to investigate the perception of E-learning was conducted and distributed using a convenience sample of RT students through an online platform (Google Forms) between September and November 2023. RESULTS: Overall, 221 RT students, with females accounting for 119 (53.8%), replied to the online survey. The study revealed several advantages of E-learning, including the ability to study at home (67.9%), access to online materials (64.7%), and learning at own pace (62.4%). The main disadvantages as indicated by most respondents were the lack of interactions with patients (70.1%), technical problems (56.6%), and reduced interaction with teachers (50.7%). No significant difference in the perceptions of knowledge enhancement between face-to-face and E-learning methods (P = .32). However, E-learning was considered a lower effective method than face-to-face learning for both clinical skill development (P < .001), and social competencies (P < .001). Additionally, respondents reported that they were less actively engaged during E-learning classes compared to face-to-face classes (P < .001). Nonetheless, a significant percentage of respondents (71.9%) claimed that E-learning was an enjoyable experience. CONCLUSION: This research emphasizes the potency of E-learning in terms of increasing knowledge as a valuable tool for educating Saudi RT students. Nevertheless, it highlights the need for a meticulously planned strategy and a proactive implementation approach to effectively implement clinical and social skills E-learning into the educational framework of RT students.

DOI

https://doi.org/10.57709/36331644

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