The Virtual Homeroom: Utility and Benefits of Small Group Online Learning in the COVID-19 Era

OBJECTIVE: During COVID-19, Harvard Medical School pivoted to online learning. A large student cohort took a completely virtual Radiology clerkship with daily programming including virtual small group teaching sessions or “homerooms.” MATERIALS AND METHODS: One hundred and eleven medical students were divided into 12 virtual small group sessions which emphasized foundational concepts. Uniform teaching materials were used across all homerooms in order to deepen understanding and allow insight into the working methods of radiologists. Students evaluated the homeroom learning and teachers for utility and benefit to their educational experience. RESULTS: Most students (93%) felt the homerooms provided an educational benefit and reinforced topics studied (77%). Most students (84%) felt the leaders created an environment conducive to learning. Despite being virtual, students were able to form interpersonal connections with the homeroom leaders. CONCLUSIONS: Incorporating virtual small group learning can be a valuable component of a virtual or hybrid Radiology clerkship, solidifying foundational concepts with the homeroom leaders playing a major role. While developed by necessity due to COVID-19, virtual small group learning with engaged leaders is an educational strategy whose benefit can continue even as there is return to in-person learning.