Advantages and disadvantages of distance learning at a medical university

Abstract

The article is devoted to the description of the strengths and weaknesses of the distance learning format at a medical university using the example of Karaganda Medical University. A survey on students’ satisfaction with the new format of education, as well as on identifying the positive and negative aspects of distance learning, was conducted among 1st-5th-year medical students. 302 respondents took part in the survey. Having analyzed the results of the survey, the author of the article came to the conclusion that the distance learning format had more advantages than disadvantages; among which the following positive aspects of the distance learning format were the most significant: saving resources (for example, time, money, etc.), the possibility to download and view educational materials at a convenient time. As critical disadvantages of the distance learning format, the respondents noted the lack of interaction between the teacher and students, as well as the lack of practice necessary for medical students. Technical problems also deserve special attention, among which the low speed of the Internet is in the lead. The identified disadvantages of the new form of education can be eliminated or minimized thanks to the recommendations outlined in the article for improving the distance learning process.