Comparison of Online and Hybrid Education Models for First Aid and Emergency Care Students

Background: The Coronavirus Disease 2019 pandemic disrupted education and training processes, necessitating a transition to remote learning that significantly altered teaching methods for both students and instructors. To highlight the challenges arising from this rapid shift in applied health sciences, the present study aimed to compare the perceptions of professional competence among First and Emergency Aid students who received online versus hybrid education during the pandemic. Materials and Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among second-year students at two universities: one providing fully online education (n = 59) and the other offering hybrid instruction (n = 61). Results: No statistically significant difference was observed between the groups in understanding theoretical courses (p = 0.088); however, students who received face-to-face instruction within the hybrid model demonstrated significantly better comprehension of practical courses (p < 0.001). Conclusion: In conclusion, while online education is adequate for acquiring theoretical knowledge, it is insufficient for developing clinical and technical skills. Accordingly, these findings suggest that practical courses in health education programs, such as First and Emergency Aid, should be conducted face-to-face whenever possible; when in-person attendance is required, appropriate safety measures should be implemented.