THE PERSPECTIVE OF PROFESSORS ON THE CHALLENGES OF REMOTE LEARNING IN NUTRITION AND PUBLIC HEALTH

Abstract

This study investigates the challenges and repercussions of Emergency Remote Learning (ERL) on the education of Nutrition students at a public university in Rio Grande do Norte, with a particular focus on Public Health education, from the perspective of faculty members. ERL was implemented due to the COVID-19 pandemic, directly impacting the quality of education, especially in health-related courses that require hands-on practices. The research employed a qualitative approach, using semi-structured interviews with faculty members who teach Public Health-related subjects. The results indicate that, despite the teachers' efforts to adapt their methodologies to the virtual environment, significant challenges were encountered, such as low student participation and technical difficulties. Furthermore, the lack of in-person interaction hindered practical training and the development of essential skills for professional practice within the Unified Health System (SUS). The conclusions emphasize the importance of in-person learning in Public Health and the need to reconsider the role of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) in health education.