Online learning has emerged as an essential component of education globally, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to evaluate medical students’ perceptions of online learning, as well as their self-reported readiness and the challenges they faced during the pandemic." A web-based, cross-sectional survey was administered to students enrolled in Pharmacy, Doctor of Pharmacy, Medicine, Nursing, Dentistry, and Veterinary Medicine programs at both public and private universities in Jordan. Data analysis, including descriptive statistics and linear regression, was performed using SPSS, and perception scores were quantified using a 5-point Likert scale." The study included 939 participants, predominantly female (691, 73.6%), with a median age of 22 years (IQR = 2). Just over half were enrolled in private universities (520, 55.6%). More than 50% of students rated their online learning experiences as unsatisfactory or very unsatisfactory (510, 54.3%). A majority favored in-person interactions with instructors and classmates, viewing them as more effective (682, 72.6%). The median perception score across the cohort was 2.4 (IQR = 1.1). Common barriers reported by over 70% of respondents included unstable internet connections, low motivation, and monotony associated with e-learning (723, 77.0%) The findings indicate low levels of satisfaction and perception among students regarding their e-learning experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study also identified key obstacles impeding effective online learning, including poor internet connectivity and reduced motivation, highlighting the necessity for innovative teaching strategies to improve students’ engagement and overall experience with digital education.
