Analisys of Undergraduate Medical Students’ Use of Facebook

ABSTRACT This study analyzed the use of Facebook and notions of ethical networking knowledge by undergraduate medical students. A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out from August to December 2015 with a structured self-administered questionnaire using medical students from a public institution in Curitiba (PR). The sample was composed of 310 academics, with a higher female participation (58.1%, p = 0.005) and a mean age of 23.3 years. Facebook was used spontaneously and informally for educational purposes three times a week for 68 (21.9%) students and daily for 188 students (60%, p < 0.0001). The tools used were documents (84.2%, p < 0.0001), timeline (55%), chat (50%) and events (49%). These applications were used to verify warnings with representatives, to update schedules, to solve exercises, to do work online and / or to discuss doubts with teachers and classmates regarding their undergraduate degree. Students recognized advantages in sharing information, interaction among people, ease of use, speed and formation of teams. Lack of privacy (34.5%), distraction and loss of focus (19.7%), ethical issues (11%), digital inclusion difficulty (4.2%), 3.5%), internet addiction and dependence (1.6%) and dubious content (1.3%) were percieved as disadvantages. Patient pictures or films were posted on social media by 13.1% of the students. Only 2% of the academics were aware of ethical standards for medical and health web sites. The use of Facebook, created and administered by students, based on their needs, interests and desires, extrapolated the simple incorporation of a social network. It allowed for the creation of a space for communication, interaction, sharing and collaboration that promoted learning. Educational policies for the virtual environment can improve a more reflective, judicious and profound pedagogical use and integration between teachers and students. For the systematized use of the Internet and its networks in this course, proposals could be made for financial investments, teacher and student training, and the establishment of rules for safer and responsible use of the internet. In this sample of students, Facebook was used for academic organization and learning, in a way that complements classroom teaching. Educational strategies with a broader scope of professional ethical standards about digital media are necessary.