Published in

Karger Publishers, Dubai Medical Journal, p. 1-4, 2023

DOI: 10.1159/000529570

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Vascular e-Learning in the MENA Region during the COVID-19 Pandemic

This paper is made freely available by the publisher.
This paper is made freely available by the publisher.

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Abstract

<b><i>Introduction:</i></b> With the steady rise in interest in e-learning and the sudden boost provoked by the COVID-19 pandemic, it becomes necessary to explore the e-learning experience within the medical community in the MENA region. <b><i>Methods:</i></b> An online survey was conducted during the early phase of the COVID-19 pandemic (June 15 – October 15, 2020). <b><i>Results:</i></b> Seventy-eight vascular surgeons and trainees from 16 countries participated. 88% of the participants were male. 55% attended more than 4 activities. More than half of the activities did not lead to any official certification. Topic was the primary determinant for attending an activity. National societies and social media played a major role in disseminating activity-related information. Lack of time, increased workload, differences in time zone, and technical issues were the main obstacles cited. 84.7% of the participants had a positive impression. <b><i>Conclusion:</i></b> As the COVID-19 pandemic boosted e-learning activities in vascular surgery, a shift was observed in the learning mode and new leadership skills were called upon. Novel ways of quality control are required.