Table 4.

Perceived advantages and disadvantages of synchronous web-based learning (n=79).

Theme and perceived advantages and disadvantages			Values, n (%)		Description	Excerpts from written responses
Advantages
	Efficient use of time	27 (34)		Reduction in travel time and time saving		“I like it because I don’t have to spend time traveling to take classes.” “I like being able to use the time before and after class efficiently.”
	The autonomy to choose one’s preferred learning environment	19 (24)		Attend classes from a preferred place (eg, home, coffee shop, or anywhere there is Wi-Fi)		“Taking classes in my own comfortable environment, optimized to learn the most, is the best thing of online learning.” “I can take classes regardless of location.”
	Protective measure during the pandemic	14 (18)		Reduced risk of COVID-19, maintaining social distancing, not a face-to-face learning, and no need to wear facial masks		“It’s a way to escape from the risk of coronavirus infection.” “I feel safe because I don’t have to go to a crowded environment.” “I think it is absolutely necessary to prevent infection in the pandemic era.”
	Heightened concentration	7 (9)		Easier to concentrate and lecture structure is more focused		“As I take classes alone, I seem to be able to concentrate and listen more easily.” “Classes are often held with lecture materials on display, allowing you to concentrate more on the lecture materials while listening to the lecture.”
Disadvantages
	Technical challenges and disruptions	28 (35)		Usability problems (eg, internet cut off during class and electronic devices needed)		“There are times when the instructor’s microphone, speaker, etc. do not work properly.” “If the internet was cut off, lectures would be interrupted, and attendance checks were often not carried out properly.” “If you happen to miss a class due to an internet connection, etc., it is often inconvenient because you cannot view the recording due to the nature of real-time lectures.”
	Reduced concentration	15 (19)		Requires more effort to concentrate; Easier to get distracted		“It is easier to not concentrate or to sneak away and do other things during class.” “The duration of concentration does not last long.”
	Limited interaction	10 (13)		Limited interaction with classmates and lecturers, hard to speak up, and feeling disconnected		“It is difficult to actively communicate and interact with professors and students.” “It seems like student participation in class has dropped significantly.”