The past decade has witnessed a significant transition from traditional offline education to online learning. Online learners are expected to succeed through self-directed learning (SDL). However, the connection between SDL capacity and online courses remains inadequately explored. This study investigated the impact of a two-month online Human Parasitology course on the SDL capacity of undergraduate medical students. A single-group interventional study was performed, and statistical analyses were conducted to estimate student satisfaction levels as well as changes in students’ SDL level, SDL capacity, and learning habits throughout the online learning experience. Following online learning, significant enhancements were observed in various dimensions of SDL capacities among 82 students. The proportion of students exhibiting high levels of SDL increased by nearly 11% by the end of the course. The course was proved to be well-designed in each section of lessons, resulting in approximately 94% of students expressing satisfaction. Additionally, students’ learning habits were significantly reshaped, leading to a preference for fragmented time management. The findings of this study demonstrate a positive impact of online courses on strengthening students’ SDL capacities while also highlighting areas for potential improvement in course design. These insights are valuable for the development of online courses and the promotion of SDL skills in the field of medical education.
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