Educational Justice in the Digital Era by Reducing Discrimination in Virtual Education; [عدالت آموزشی در عصر دیجیتال با کاهش تبعیض در آموزش مجازی] Publisher

Summary: Could online medical education be more equitable? A policy brief prioritizes ethical guidance and staff training before infrastructure changes to address unfair access. #MedicalEducation #Equity

Jazi Z H ; Shahzeydi A ; Gheybi K
Source: Journal of Isfahan Medical School Published:2026

Abstract

Virtual education, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, was an essential priority; despite its numerous benefits, it has come with some significant challenges, including feelings of injustice and discrimination. Discrimination that threatens the self-esteem, motivation, and mental health of students, especially in the medical and nursing fields. This is while the quality of care and patient safety are directly affected by the efficiency of service delivery of these graduates. In response to the challenges, this policy brief explains and proposes four policy strategies as follows: 1) Developing and communicating a “Charter for Fair Interactions in Virtual Education Environments” was recommended to define clear norms and create accountability mechanisms. 2) Implementing a “Digital Empowerment” program for faculty and students to reduce skill weakness and, consequently, discrimination. 3) Providing infrastructure and financial support that helps to achieve equitable access and educational justice. 4) Redesigning educational processes and assessment with a focus on justice to achieve the goal of teaching and learning. Analysis of these options, taking into account the implementation requirements, stakeholders, and positive and negative effects of each, showed that ethical and normative guidance is a prerequisite for any change and is the first priority. Then, by investing in human capital empowerment, the necessary platform is provided to attract support and justify large investments in providing infrastructure and financial support and ultimately redesigning and assessing educational processes. These measures aim to prevent harm to justice and can be effective in the quality of education and health system services. © 2026, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences(IUMS). All rights reserved.