The impact of COVID-19 on medical education and training

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic social isolation policies have accelerated the shift to online teaching for medical students and doctors in training worldwide. Online learning is cost-effective, available, and flexible. However, it can be challenging due to the technical system errors, which results in the disruption of the learning process and social isolation yielding to less satisfaction among students and teachers. The above can have negative consequences on the mental health of medical students and trainees, which is an under-researched area. United Kingdom based medical students and doctors in speciality training encountered disruptions to medical education and training due to the pandemic. Medical school and deaneries had to endorse adjustments to teaching and training delivery methods, examination, and assessments to ensure the continued progression of learning and training. A successful e-learning model depends on motivated and well-prepared medical students and teachers and structured educational materials in supported learning environment and institutions. A blended model is likely to be utilised by medical institutions for medical training in the future, which will need to be researched.