Perceptions And Challenges Of Nursing Students Related To Online Learning During COVID-19 in Guyana.-A mixed method study

Abstract

Objective: To explore the nursing students’ perceptions and experiences of online learning during the COVID-19 Pandemic- a mixed method. Methods: A mixed method was used and obtained ethical approval from IRB. Quantitatively 419 nursing students’ perceptions were assessed using a valid and reliable Likert scale with 37 items through google form survey.  Qualitatively five focus group discussions (6 to 8 students each) with duration of 60 to 90 minutes from respective five Schools of nursing were conducted via zoom and recorded. Codes were generated using MAXQDA analytics Pro 2022 version 22.2.1.   Results: 276 (65.87%) students agreed self-discipline is necessary for online learning. 267 (63.72%) students strongly agree that online classes reduce travel expenses. Gender had no influence on perception. Younger students showed more positive perception than older students, Senior BSN students showed positive perception compared to RN students and associations are statistically significant at <0.001. Thematic analysis led to the following themes. Some preferred online learning due to its “flexibility” “Convenient” and “access to recorded sessions” and others preferred face to face: online learning is “good for theory only”, but for practical sessions face to face interactions is necessary, “Sense of isolation” “No student interaction” “less student- faculty interaction”. Barriers identified were “internet connectivity issues”, “Electricity issues” and “Technological issues”. Facilitators were “convenience” “reduced cost in transportation” “saves time” and opportunity to become “tech savvy”. Conclusion: Online classes are suitable for theoretical aspects but require face to face interaction for practical components. Key words: perceptions, online learning, nursing students.