Correlation Between the E-learning Attitude and Academic Achievement of Medical Students in Clinical Levels

Abstract

Background: E-learning is an essential application of information and communication technology, which is emphasized in facilitating teaching-learning activities and the use of online resources. Objectives: The present study aimed to investigate the correlation between e-learning attitudes and academic achievement in medical students. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 154 residents, interns, and clerkships at Shahid Beheshti Hospital in Kashan, Iran in 2020. Data were collected using two standard questionnaires, and the students' grade point average (GPA) was considered as their academic achievement. Data analysis was performed in SPSS version 26 using descriptive statistics (frequency tables) and inferential statistics (independent t-test, ANOVA, and correlation-coefficient) at the significance level of P ≤ 0.05. Results: The students’ attitude toward e-learning was considered favorable with the score estimated at 77.5. However, the students’ attitude toward e-learning had no significant correlation with their academic achievement (P = 0.169). Conclusions: Given the satisfaction of the students with e-learning, we could use the capacities and strengths of e-learning to ensure the quality of learning in medical education. Furthermore, these capacities could be employed to overcome the barriers and limitations of traditional education, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.