Educational Perspectives in Microbiology: Analysis of the Impact of Virtual Practices vs. In-Person Practices on Podiatry Degree Students

With the aim of effectively integrating virtual environments in Microbiology practices, the effectiveness of practices in virtual format compared to face-to-face in the Microbiology subject of the Podiatry Degree has been analyzed. After choosing the in-person or virtual practical format, the students voluntarily completed knowledge questionnaires prior to and after the practices, in order to evaluate their performance. Likewise, the commitment and satisfaction of the students was evaluated. The majority of students chose to carry out the practices in person, showing greater commitment and participation in the questionnaires. Both groups experienced an improvement in performance, with no significant differences between formats. Students who participated in the practices expressed a high level of satisfaction in both formats. Virtual practices are an appropriate alternative to face-to-face practices in teaching Microbiology.