Exploring the components of student support system in blended learning for Iranian Universities of Medical Sciences: A thematic analysis

Mohammadimehr, Mojgan; Mirmoghtadaie, Zohrehsadat

BACKGROUND: Support services are a very important element for all educational institutions. The aims of this study were to explore the components of the student support system in blended learning for universities of medical sciences in Iran. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The present study was performed qualitative with exploratory approach. The tool used to collect data was a semi-structured interview, after conducting interviews with 17 e-learning experts and specialists of universities of medical sciences, we reached information saturation. The study was conducted at Aja University of Medical Sciences in Tehran in 2020. Data analysis was performed as Thematic Content Analysis by Attride-Stirling method. RESULTS: From the content analysis of the interviews, 6 main themes and 19 sub-themes were obtained. Main themes included “Scientific- cognitive Support”, “Systematic Support”, “Human Resource Support”, “Emotional Support”, “Technical Support” and “Financial- economic Support”. CONCLUSION: Based on the results of this study, 6 basic components and its subcomponents of the student support system were obtained. It is suggested that the educational officials of medical universities with blended learning use the results of this study in setting up their student support system for academic success in e-learning and medical students.