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International Research Journal of Medical Sciences and Health Care

Open Access Peer Review International
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A Digital Transformation Framework for Converting Public Health Study Abroad Programs into Virtual Learning Environments During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Implications for Enhancing Public Health Practice and Training Outcomes

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Dr. Ali Rezaei 1 , Dr. Maryam Farhadi 1 ,
4 Department of Artificial Intelligence University of Isfahan, Isfahan, Iran
4 Faculty of Industrial Engineering Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted traditional public health study abroad programs, necessitating rapid transitions toward virtual learning environments (VLEs). This study proposes a structured digital transformation framework designed to convert field-based public health education programs into digitally mediated global learning experiences without compromising pedagogical depth or experiential learning quality. Grounded in high-impact educational practices (Kuh, 2008), the framework integrates digital pedagogy, contextual public health exposure, and data-driven reflective learning to sustain competency development in global health education. The study synthesizes evidence from public health service delivery challenges, socio-environmental determinants, and digital qualitative analysis tools to construct a scalable and adaptable model for institutions operating in resource-constrained or pandemic-affected contexts.

Findings highlight that digital transformation in study abroad programs enhances accessibility, continuity of learning, and analytical engagement with real-world public health challenges. However, limitations include reduced immersive cultural exposure and uneven digital infrastructure across regions. The study concludes that a hybridized digital-global health education model can strengthen training outcomes when aligned with structured experiential learning principles (Kuh, 2008). The proposed framework contributes to ongoing discourse on educational resilience, digital pedagogy, and global public health capacity building.

Keywords

Digital transformation, virtual learning environments, public health education

References

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