Advancing paramedical education through virtual learning platforms: A quantitative study at AJA University of Medical Sciences

BACKGROUND: Virtual education leverages online technologies to improve instructional quality and student learning outcomes. The present study was undertaken to examine the impact of virtual education on the academic performance of paramedical students at AJA University of Medical Sciences. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted in 2022 at AJA University of Medical Sciences on a sample of 50 paramedical students selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using a researcher-developed instrument titled the E-Learning Satisfaction Questionnaire, which consists of 43 items across five domains. Descriptive statistics, including mean, standard deviation, minimum, and maximum scores, were analyzed using SPSS version 23. RESULTS: This study at AJA University of Medical Sciences found virtual education quality to be satisfactory, with a mean score of 80.8 ± 19.2. Most students (78.8%) rated the educational content as excellent, and 74% were satisfied with its alignment to learning objectives. Real-time interaction between instructors and students received an 82.6% excellent rating. Accessibility to self-assessment exams was good for 88% of participants, and 70.5% were satisfied with the Navid system. Additionally, 80.7% rated the Navid and Skyroom platforms positively. Overall, students showed high satisfaction with the quality, interaction, accessibility, and infrastructure of the virtual education program. CONCLUSION: AJA University of Medical Sciences effectively implemented virtual education programs, demonstrating their potential in enhancing educational delivery. The findings underscore the necessity for a dedicated paramedical faculty initiative aimed at improving student learning outcomes and fostering innovative, interactive, and student-centered teaching methodologies.