Factors affecting the coping experience of health science students in remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic

Abstract

Background: The uncertainties of the COVID19 pandemic, resulted to the use of remote learning. It is now considered as the 'new normal' in the educational system, especially among countries that have underutilized this platform. The need for a balanced solution is even more magnified in the context of resource-limited countries and their state-funded institutions. The general objective of the research is to determine the factors in the coping experience among health science students during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methodology: A descriptive, quantitative, cross-sectional study design was employed for this study. There were 167 undergraduate students, at least 18 years old, enrolled in a health science college who completed the self - administered online survey.

Results: The availability and access to a stable internet and resources were essential in the learning of students. Teaching methods and course handling of teachers, were elemental in influencing the coping experience. Most students agreed that remote learning affected their study habits and attitudes such as following a work schedule and accomplishing assigned tasks that resulted to be overburdened and stressed with schoolwork. Additionally, majority of students disagreed to continue the implementation of remote learning after the pandemic. The identified psychosocial factors that contributed to the stress and anxiety of the students include a combination of concerns on health, workload, deadlines, school delay, and being isolated.

Conclusion: Overall, the respondents want the pandemic to end soon and were prepared to go back to the traditional face – to – face classes. The realization gained from these findings, leads to the importance of preparing a resilient educational system that also considers the learning capacity and mental health of students to cope with a new instructional strategy.