IMPACT OF ONLINE TEACHING AND LEARNING EXPERIENCES OF UNDERGRADUATE DENTAL STUDENTS OF BAPUJI DENTAL COLLEGE DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC – A CROSS SECTIONAL SURVEY

Background: Dental schools were compelled to temporarily close clinics due to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) and switch from traditional classroom instruction to distance learning. The aim of our survey was to determine the impact of online education on dental students and to find out the preparedness of final year dental students for independent practice after their graduation. Methods: A cross sectional survey was conducted among 300 BDS students studying in Bapuji dental College. The questionnaire was distributed online using email. The questionnaire was divided into two parts: the first portion included online learning experience, while the second section concentrated on readiness for independent dental practise. Results: The survey received an 81% response rate. Nearly 95.6% of fourth-year BDS students reported that their clinical training had a negative impact. Due to lockdown, the majority (82%) of our students missed their clinical classes. BDS students in the first (81%) second (85%) third (54%) and fourth (82%) years favoured the traditional lecture method (p 0.001). Online lessons are not a suitable way to improve communication skills, according to our students (70.5%). Students in the final year reported decreased confidence in their ability to set up independent practise following graduation. Conclusion: Online learning is not a substitute for in-person clinical classes, according to our students. The amount of readiness for independent practise was not positive.