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Students’ perception of the learning environment in a new medical college by means of the DREEM inventory

Journal: International Journal of Research in Medical Sciences (Vol.1, No. 4)

Publication Date:

Authors : ;

Page : 385-391

Keywords : Learning environment; Students’ perception;

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Abstract

Background: The educational environment in a college is one of the most important factors in determining the success of the curriculum and the student. The DREEM inventory is a validated global instrument for measuring the educational environment in undergraduate medical education. A study was undertaken to assess the educational environment as perceived by the students of a new medical college established in India in 2008. Objectives: To compare the quality of the educational environment in preclinical years as perceived by the first two batches of students in a new medical college so that appropriate remedial measures could be taken, and also to identify gender differences, if any in the students’ perception. Methods: The DREEM questionnaire was administered to 156 students (2008 batch, n=56 and 2009 batch, n=100) on different occasions after a lecture class. Purpose of the study was explained to the students before administering the questionnaire. Confidentiality was maintained. Statistical analysis used: Cronbachs alpha for internal consistency and reliability. Unpaired t test was used for comparison. Results: The response rate was 100% (256 /256 students). The overall DREEM score was 126.3/200 indicating that perception of the educational environment of the medical school was more positive than negative. However, the study revealed some problem areas within the educational environment. Conclusion: A large number of diverse and hidden factors influence the way students perceive their educational environment. It should be a continuous process to monitor the feedbacks from the students to identify problem areas so that necessary remedial measures can be instituted at the earliest. [Int J Res Med Sci 2013; 1(4.000): 385-391]

Last modified: 2013-11-11 15:24:17