From Crisis to Connectivity: Exploring the Role of Information and Communication Technologies in Medical Education During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Introduction: In a virtual setting at a private university in Lima, Peru, 277 medical students participated in a study in 2021 during the Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Objective: The aim was to investigate how information and communication technologies (ICTs) were utilized as educational aids in their field. Results: The findings showed a high level of satisfaction with ICT resources, especially among female students (54%). However, challenges were present: 64% faced technical issues during virtual classes, while 60% saw information availability and internet access as major advantages. Despite connectivity problems affecting 83% of students, 55% believed ICTs supported collaborative learning. Interestingly, while 64% found ICT use distracting, 52% found it easy to use. Conclusion: ICTs played a significant role in medical education, introducing new methods and tools despite obstacles and providing a dynamic and adaptable e-learning environment.