Academic challenges and prospects for b-learning due to COVID-19

Abstract

PROBLEM: in the LAPROMED Subprogram, the b-learning modality is implemented in an emergent way due to COVID-19. This has represented challenges and perspectives that are important to investigate in order to create efficient methodological proposals that allow professional practice to continue. OBJECTIVE: to define the academic challenges and prospects for b-learning, an emerging methodology due to COVID-19 from the point of view of the LAPROMED teacher and student and the authorities of the Teaching Experiences with the Community Program -EDC-. METHOD: the mixed approach was covered with an exploratory scope, a non-experimental design of the exploratory cross-sectional type for the quantitative part and a descriptive scope for the qualitative part, a phenomenological design of an empirical type. The techniques applied were the survey, the interview and focus group. The sample consisted of 93 students, 2 teachers and 1 LAPROMED authority. Sampling was non-probabilistic. RESULTS: the main challenges were presented in the virtual component since the content of the course consists of the development of knowledge, habits and skills for professional work in the pharmaceutical industry and its methodological nature was planned to be carried out face-to-face prior to the pandemic. CONCLUSION: the ideal modality for its development is the face-to-face modality, while the virtual modality can be complementary. For this reason, the elaboration of a methodological guide is suggested, adapting to the external circumstances that arise.