Experiences of Occupational Therapy students with remote education in pandemic times

Abstract

This is a descriptive-exploratory study, with a qualitative approach, carried out with Occupational Therapy students at the Federal University of Paraíba, Brazil. The objective of this research was to investigate the experience of remote classes during the pandemic for the students interviewed, revealing the repercussions of remote classes on their routines and occupations, also identifying the influences of the remote class modality on their physical and mental health. Twelve Occupational Therapy students participated in the study. The instrument for data collection was a semi-structured interview, carried out from September to December of 2021. Data analysis was performed through thematic content analysis. The study complied with Resolution 466/12 of the National Health Council. The research results are explained in two main categories, in which significant changes were identified in the students' routines, occupations and occupational roles, as well as impairments in their mental and physical health. The research makes it possible to trace indications of the situation of university students in the emergency remote context, also envisioning reflection processes that can contribute in an uplifting way in the context of the return of post-pandemic face-to-face teaching and in the imbricated construction of a daily life for students.