TRENDS IN MEDICAL EDUCATION FROM TRADITIONAL TO INTEGRATED SYSTEM: VALUED BY FIRST YEAR MBBS STUDENTS AT A PRIVATE MEDICAL COLLEGE OF PESHAWAR

Abstract

Introduction: Rehman Medical College Peshawar implemented a new modular integrated hybrid curriculum and modern mode of teaching strategies since its inception in 2010. The present study aimed to explore the viewpoints of students about the usefulness of the principles of integrated medical curriculum and teaching strategies and evaluation methods adopted.
Material & Methods: A survey of first year MBBS students was conducted in 2011 using self-administered questionnaire which included quantitative and qualitative parts. Enough space was provided for the qualitative response. The qualitative part of the study entailed in self-response open ended. Universal sampling approach was employed. Quantitative data analysis were done using SPSS version 15.0 while qualitative data were manually analyzed.
Results: Fifty-eight students (58%) completed the questionnaires. Regarding the usefulness of integrated medical curriculum of basic medical subjects, 36 (62.1%) found it very useful, 15 (25.8%) found it useful. For preference of teaching methods, 50(87.7%) found SGF very useful; also 34(58.6%) found large group format (LGF) very useful and 15(25.9%) found it useful; 30(51.7%) reported that mini-seminars are useful whereas 21(36.2%) students found self-directed learning useful. Students’ responses to the end of lesson examination were evaluated; 32(55.2%) students were in favor of these exams; 38(65.5%) were in favor of end of week evaluation while 49(84.5%) were in favor of end of module examinations. Similarly 41(70.7%) supported mid-term; 38(65.5%) favored inclusion of medical research in the undergraduate curriculum. Most of the students were in favor of current system with small reservations. According to them the current system should be continued with improvement in areas like; decrease in end of lesson exam, teacher student relationship, availability of reading materials, strict follow up of lesson plan.
Conclusion: Majority of students prefer the new modular integrated system of teaching. A few areas of the previous system are still popular and may be continued by integrating them in suitable places in the new system. Based on evidence, diversity of teaching and evaluation method is a good thing and to be encouraged. The strategy (SGF) that promotes interaction is likely to be the most effective.