Theme 2: different ways to manage the time
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The students reported a common thread in their narration, namely, how they managed their time to deal with their lectures, which differed between the synchronous and asynchronous groups. Hence, we created the theme ‘Different Ways to Manage the Time’. The disadvantage in the synchronous mode was being unable to manage one’s own time and thus being ‘forced’ to be there at that moment. As a result, the students had to stick to the lecturer’s schedule.“In my opinion, the biggest limitation is perhaps the fact that you are ‘forced’ to be there in that moment. In the sense that if you have an appointment, you clearly don’t have the possibility to see it [the lesson] when you want…” (P23, woman, 22y, Synchronous Group).Conversely, the students in the asynchronous group positively perceived this modality, primarily due to its flexibility in managing their time based on individual commitments. This flexibility allowed them to engage with the course material at their own pace, accommodating other responsibilities and obligations they may have had.“Well, certainly, in a period like this, it is much more practical in terms of organisation. I’m not talking about Covid, but the intense period between exams, training, etc. Managing your own time is much more practical.” (P4, woman, 23y, Asynchronous Group).