The study of problems encountered by radiological technology students in online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic: a survey at the Department of Radiological Technology, Faculty of Medical Technology, Mahidol University

Abstract

This study investigated the problems that radiological technology students encountered in online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. An online survey was developed and distributed to all radiological technology students at the Faculty of Medical Technology Mahidol University during the 2021 academic year. The survey sought to collect information on the demographic characteristics of participants, the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on learning radiological technology, and suggestions to improve online learning. A total of 117 responses were retrieved and collected in an Excel spreadsheet. The responses were statistically analyzed using descriptive statistics. Five-Points Likert Scale was used to measure the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on learning radiological technology. The results showed that online study materials were available on different online platforms. The most used platform was YouTube, followed by Google Classroom and Zoom. The study revealed that, during the pandemic, students experienced a greater number of stressful events and perceived stress over a more extended period, resulting in losing concentration while studying. The students expressed the most concern regarding the lack of practical professional skills required for the radiological technologist. The students were also concerned about the rising cost of living and the boredom while studying. However, the study also found that the availability of learning devices was not the main problem for the students.