Table 2 Descriptive comments from the residents on the online teaching rounds

Advantages of Virtual Seminars

“I find myself much more focused when watching the lectures through my screen. It feels like a personalized teaching session as opposed to an auditorium, which I find distracting. Also, the convenience of meeting over zoom makes attendance much easier as you don't have to commute.”

“Eliminating the need to travel on site early in the morning, thus allowing more rest and more focus when learning.”

“The ability to record and less time travelling in a car. Presenters tend to prepare videos for their presentations.”

“It is much easier to have high profile speakers from around the world, and they are more convenient.”

Disadvantages of Virtual Seminars

“There is less dynamic feedback from the audience.”

“It is easier to tune out and hide.”

“There is a loss of physical interactions with fellow classmates and residents. The social aspect is lacking.”

“There is more screen time and a little less interactivity from the audience.”

Suggestions for improvement

“Include more polls and open talk times to improve engagement.”

“Develop methods for the presenter to obtain feedback from the audience.”

“Encourage more back and forth between the presenter and the audience right from the beginning of the session.”