Advantages and disadvantages of distance-learning process in Rīga Stradiņš University medical chemistry course

The described research analyses the experience gained after one semester in the medical chemistry course (study program “Medicine”) when working with first-year students.  The choice of appropriate course materials is very important in distance learning since it is necessary to consider student experience, learning pace and ability to transition to a self-guided study process. Electronic medical chemistry course materials include an exhaustive factual material, video lectures and laboratory work visualizations with commentaries as well as knowledge and skill tests for self-examination which were highly regarded by students. Online lessons were carried out in the following manner: presentation of the material, independent work, analysis of the results.  When evaluating distance learning as an advantage or a disadvantage, student answers split into two equal parts. Students which considered it as an advantage mentioned the ability to better plan their studies, comfort as well as savings (both financial and time-wise) that were related to not needing to attend classes in person. Students which considered it as a disadvantage mentioned the inability to participate in laboratory works although available experiment videos and use of interactive whiteboard was highly regarded. Also noted was the lack of communication between students and the lack of motivation for regular work. Although a significant effort was made to create online lessons and create a flexible and student-oriented study environment, there were students who weren't interested in active engagement and interaction. Given that it already is difficult to engage a passive student during lessons in person, it becomes even more so with distance learning. Given that the current solution is considered as temporary, the effectiveness of distance learning shouldn't be evaluated based on student study results in the medical chemistry course albeit the gained experience will definitely change the future study process.