Real Versus Virtual Classes: A Perspective from Medical Undergraduate Student's Point of View with Their Effectiveness in Learning

Objective: In March 2020, a nationwide lockdown due to the spread of Coronavirus Disease of 2019 infection in India was declared. To continue the learning process, the Medical Universities of India adopted online learning. This article aims to compare online live classes and traditional face-to-face classes based on the opinions of Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) undergraduates of South India and determine the acceptability of each of the methods. Methods: Online survey of 364 MBBS undergraduates (UGs) of medical colleges of South India was conducted using a questionnaire. A validated questionnaire produced on Google Form, which contains 16 questions, was mailed to all the participants. Their replies were noted, and statistical evaluation was done on drawbacks, benefits, and preferences, based on their valuable opinions. Results: A total of 364 UG students participated in the online survey willingly. 87.16% of the students used Microsoft Teams for online classes. 35.71% of participants had a good experience with online classes. The main advantage of the online classes was comfort (28.41%). The main disadvantage of online classes was Internet issues (26.49%). Out of 364 UG students, 71.43% felt physical classes were better than online classes. The main advantage of physical classes was attentiveness (23.42%). The main disadvantage was compromised social distancing, with 19.84%. A total of 37% UGs preferred online classes, while 63% preferred physical classes. Conclusion: Our study identifies both pros and cons for physical and online modes of teaching. However, UG students preferred physical classes more than online mode.