Investigation of the factors affecting the e-learning process in occupational therapy education during the pandemic with principal component analysis

Introduction The aim of this study is to examine the factors affecting the e-learning process in occupational therapy education in the COVID-19 period. Method In the study, a form containing personal information and questions about the e-learning process, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, the Academic Self-Efficacy Scale, the Perceived Stress Scale, and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale were applied to 253 occupational therapy students via the Google form. Principal component analysis was used to evaluate the data. Results A large number of questionnaires were applied in the study, and principal component analysis, an advanced statistical method that enables the interpretation of this type of big data more effectively, was used. 13 components were determined, and a variance of 88% was explained. The main components were listed as students’ self-perception about the education system, learning methods, home and university environment, information technologies, physical activity level, and academic performance/participation. Conclusion We hope that the results of our study will provide a perspective on what innovations can be made for quality improvement in occupational therapy education. It would be beneficial to increase student feedback by applying similar studies in other education programs.