Factors Affecting the Satisfaction of Medical Students in Iran With Virtual Education During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Following the outbreak of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), virtual education became more popular. This study aims to determine the satisfaction level of medical students in Iran with virtual education during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This is a descriptive-analytical study that was conducted in 2020. The study population consists of all students of medical universities in ten cities of Iran, of whom 1300 were included in the study. To collect data, a researcher-made questionnaire was used with acceptable validity and reliability (Cronbach’s α=0.76). After completing the questionnaires, the data were analyzed in SPSS software, version 22.

The highest level of students’ satisfaction was in two domains of “the method of presenting lessons to students” and “the fulfillment of students’ expectations”, followed by the domains of teacher-student interaction, interest/attitude, and reliability/trustworthiness of the technology. There was a significant correlation among these domains of the satisfaction scale (P<0001).

The satisfaction of medical students in Iran with virtual education during the COVID-19 pandemic is at a favorable level. Therefore, it is recommended to use this education method during the pandemic.