Challenges to E- Learning among the Medical Undergraduates in Ahmedabad.

Introduction: E – learning is defined as an educational system that delivers information using information technology resources such as internet, intranet, satellite broadcasts and multimedia applications. Anywhere-anytime feature of e-learning is beneficial in the times of crisis-like situation. Although it offers many advantages but the challenges associated with this are also manyfold. Methodology: This was a cross sectional study conducted at a government medical college in Ahmedabad, Gujarat. Study participants consisted of medical undergraduate students (MBBS) of first to final year, who experienced online learning during their academic sessions. Google forms were distributed to students and responses collected were analysed. Results: Around 2/3students still prefer classroom teaching than online classes. Reasons for the same are not only acceptability but more importantly technical ones faced by the students. Challenges identified are-technical problems, information overload, inability to communicate with teachers personally, lack of motivation and evaluation, digital illiteracy, unequal distribution of ICT infrastructure etc. Conclusion: New and improved online leaning platforms are emerging with better user interface. Along with technology, our teaching methods also need to evolve to engage students for more efficient utilization of online learning.