What to keep? What to discard? Virtual or in-person learning after the pandemic: Expectations of French neurology residents

Abstract

Issue: To define the relevance of online courses for neurology residents in a post-COVID environment and how to improve existing programs.

Evidence: In total, 99 French neurology residents voluntarily chose to participate in this survey. They were asked about the proportion of online courses they followed before and during the pandemic, the advantages and inconveniences of each format, the type of environment in which they attended online classes, and their preference for either online or in-person learning. Out of the 99 French neurology residents who responded, 65% of them had less than 25% of their course load online before the pandemic, whereas in 2022, 38% of them had more than 75% of their courses in a virtual format. With 56% of students being able to attend online classes from home and another 25% attending from their hospital unit, general access was not an issue. However, only 18% of residents reported that these online courses increased their attendance and 74% of them reported preferring in-person courses to those online. To improve the current offer of online courses, residents suggested a more interactive learning method, such as through clinical cases (49%).

Implications: Although a small portion of students is satisfied with this change toward online learning, most residents seek to go back to in-person courses and conferences. Virtual programs did not increase student attendance and instead highlighted the lack of dedicated time available for specialized education during neurology residency. Returning to in-person training and education could improve residents' focus and help develop a network of health professionals across the country.

Keywords: COVID-19; Digital teaching; Neurology; Resident.