The paradigm shift towards online learning during Covid-19 pandemic: an assessment of the attitudes on the learning practices among University of Zambia pharmacy students

BACKGROUND: The nexus between higher education and digital technology has been extensively studied in the past and recently during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aims to ascertain pharmacy students' attitudes towards using online learning during COVID-19. METHODS: This cross-sectional study assessed the University of Zambia’s (UNZA) pharmacy students’ adaptive characteristics, such as attitude, perception, and barriers to online learning during the COVID-19 pandemic. Data from a survey of N = 240 were collected using a self-administered, validated questionnaire along with a standard tool. Findings were statistically analysed using STATA version 15.1. RESULTS: Of the 240 respondents, 150 (62%) had a negative attitude towards online learning. Further, 141 (58.3%) of the respondents find online learning less effective than traditional face-to-face learning. Regardless, 142 (58.6%) of the respondents expressed a desire to modify and adapt online learning. The mean scores for the six domains of attitude (perceived usefulness, intention to adapt, ease of use of online learning, technical assistance, learning stressors, and distant use of online learning) were 2.9, 2.8, 2.5, 2.9, 2.9, and 3.5, respectively. After multivariate logistic regression analysis, no factors in this study were significantly associated with attitude towards online learning. The high cost of the internet, unreliable internet connectivity and lack of institutional support were perceived barriers to effective online learning. CONCLUSION: Although most of the students in this study had a negative attitude toward online learning, they are willing to adopt it. Online learning could supplement traditional face-to-face learning in pharmacy programs if it can be made more user-friendly, have fewer technological barriers, and be complemented by programs that help improve practical learning abilities.