Are E-learning Apps Replacing the Classroom Learning among Dental Students? A Questionnaire Survey

The coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) pandemic had brought a paradigm shift in education systems all over the world; dental education is no exception to it. This study aimed to determine how dental students perceive e-learning as having an influence on dental education. Materials and methods: A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among N = 160 students of Asan Memorial Dental College and Hospital. Self-administrated validated questionnaire consisting of questions about demographic profile, attitude, knowledge, and practice toward e-learning methodologies was assessed. Results: Of N = 160 students, n = 74 (46.3%) were preclinical students and n = 86 (53.8%) were clinical students. Of the preclinical students, n = 41 (25.6%) preferred e-learning and n = 71 (44.4%) clinical students did (p <0.05). N = 15 (9.35%) of preclinical students and n = 44 (27.5%) of clinical students surveyed indicated that the knowledge gained could be applied practically. N = 23 (14.37%) of preclinical students and n = 39 (24.3%) of clinical students felt the e-learning system will be a success in the future. Conclusion: E-learning apps are more beneficial for dental students than traditional methods of learning. The future of dental education will be made up of a combination of physical classes and online classes, which is known as blended learning.