Abstract
Introduction: Recently, information and communication technology (ICT) is increasingly used as a part of teaching processes. This study aimed to investigate the attitude of paramedical students of Mashhad University of Medical Sciences towards the use of ICT in learning.
Materials & Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted from September 2022 to February 2023. A pre-developed standard questionnaire was used to collect data (r = 89%). We used proportional sampling with an email distribution containing a description and link to the web-based survey.
Results: A total of 98 students responded to the survey (response rate: 95%). The majority of students (83.7%) agreed and strongly agreed that today ICT is very important for learning. The relationship between academic performance and attitude towards ICT was significant (P < 0.0001). In addition, the students who stated that they had passed the ICT training course had a promising attitude towards the use of ICT in learning (P < 0.0001). Also, the relationship between gender variable and attitude towards ICT was significant. So that female students had a more positive attitude towards using ICT tools for learning (P < 0.0001).
Conclusion: The results of this study showed that students had a positive and hopeful attitude towards using ICT tools in learning. In addition, we found differences in attitudes based on gender, previous training in ICT, and academic performance. As a result, universities can be agents of change by effectively combining ICT tools in the teaching and learning process, strengthening the skills and competencies needed by these future professionals.
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