Abstract:
Internal Quality Assurance Cell (IQAC) of the Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri
Jayewardenepura (FMS-USJ) faced several challenges in the implementation of its quality assurance
(QA) activities during the COVID-19 pandemic. One of the main challenges was the restriction of
face-to-face meetings. Therefore, IQAC started using online platforms for possible activities. This
paper showcases the experience gained by IQAC FMS-USJ using online platforms. Face-to-face
attendance of the committee members (N=23) at monthly IQAC meetings over the year 2020 was
compared with online meetings in 2021. Student satisfaction on teaching and learning activities and
facilities provided were assessed using a Google form shared with the whole batch at the end of each
phase: Phase 1- first two years, Phase II- 3
rdto 4thyear, and Phase III- final year (N=459). The
questionnaire consisted of closed-ended questions on a 5-point Likert scale on different aspects of
teaching and learning activities and facilities provided. The responses were analysed and the report
was submitted to relevant committees to take remedial actions. Response rates and mean satisfaction
scores were compared between the three phases. Peer evaluation was conducted by allocating each
colleague to a peer teacher. Online evaluation forms were used and the collected feedback was
reviewed at the departmental level. Summary of the peer evaluation report is to be submitted to the
Department of Medical Education and then to the Curriculum Development Committee. Compared to
face-to-face attendance, online attendance was consistently higher and became statistically significant
in September (t=3.32, p=0.0008). In student satisfaction, a higher response rate was observed in Phase
I. Completeness and clarity was 100% for all the online responses in peer evaluation. The most
common teaching method evaluated was lectures. Monitoring the quality assurance (QA) activities,
student satisfaction, and peer evaluation via online platforms is feasible and acceptable
