Well-being and Online Learning during COVID-19 Lockdown: A Survey of the Perception of Undergraduate Occupational Therapy Students from Colleges of Maharashtra

Background: The current lockdown has shut down schools, universities and thus has largely affected the wellbeing of students. In view of COVID-19 lockdown in India, many colleges started online classes. This study aimed to evaluate the wellbeing of occupational therapy student and their perception towards online classes during lockdown. Methods: We designed an online questionnaire with close ended questions to assess students? wellbeing and online learning experience. It was pilot tested for content and structure. Link to the questionnaire was shared with the occupational therapy students who have attended at least one online class during the COVID-19 lockdown period. Result: 75% of the students found to have negative impact whereas 25% students found to have a positive impact on their routine. 68% students rated clinical skills to be affected severely, whereas 19% found it to be moderately affected due to online learning. Conclusion: Students on survey reported moderate level of emotional distress due to uncertainty about the pandemic, whereas maximum students are more worried about lack of exposure for clinical assignments and patient handling due to online classes. Internet connectivity was major cause of dissatisfaction towards the online learning.