The Study on the Impact of Enriched Virtual Mode of Learning among Medical Technology Interns of University Of Santo Tomas

Abstract

Face-to-face learning in a traditional classroom setting is the golden standard for instructional delivery. COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the education system forced Higher Education Institutions offering health allied courses’ shift to Enriched Virtual Mode of Learning (EVM) as an alternative modality. In evaluating the impacts of the approach in correlation to the eight (8) learning outcomes stipulated in CHED Memorandum Order no. 13 series of 2017, a descriptive quantitative research design was used, and participants were selected through purposive sampling technique. A total of 162 responses from the University of Santo Tomas (UST) medical technology interns’ batch 2021 were gathered and subjected to WarpPLS for correlation and linear regression analyses. The result showed implementation of EVM in terms of the facilities used has an insignificant impact (p = >0.05) on the achievement of learning outcomes 1 to 7. This reflects the use of online platforms as currently new and still poses various benefits and limitations. EVM facilities for the achievement of learning outcome 8 presented a negative impact (β = -0.155, p = 0.022) due to the interns’ lack of opportunity for communication, teamwork, and interaction with their colleagues and patients. EVM through its manner of delivery presented a positive impact (p = < 0.05) across all eight (8) program learning outcomes, which can be attributed to the sufficient delivery of appropriate learning materials. The result of the study provides an overview of the current trend of online learning in medical education and may be utilized as a basis for implementing adjustments in the curricula and considerations for full implementation.