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Mahsusi M, Hudaa S, Nuryani N, Fahmi M, Tsurayya G, Iqhrammullah M. Global Rate of Willingness to Volunteer Among Medical and Health Students During Pandemic: Systemic Review and Meta-Analysis. JMIR MEDICAL EDUCATION 2024; 10:e56415. [PMID: 38621233 PMCID: PMC11019965 DOI: 10.2196/56415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2024] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND During health crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, shortages of health care workers often occur. Recruiting students as volunteers could be an option, but it is uncertain whether the idea is well-accepted. OBJECTIVE This study aims to estimate the global rate of willingness to volunteer among medical and health students in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODS A systematic search was conducted on PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Google Scholar for studies reporting the number of health students willing to volunteer during COVID-19 from 2019 to November 17, 2023. The meta-analysis was performed using a restricted maximum-likelihood model with logit transformation. RESULTS A total of 21 studies involving 26,056 health students were included in the meta-analysis. The pooled estimate of the willingness-to-volunteer rate among health students across multiple countries was 66.13%, with an I2 of 98.99% and P value of heterogeneity (P-Het)<.001. Removing a study with the highest influence led to the rate being 64.34%. Our stratified analyses indicated that those with older age, being first-year students, and being female were more willing to volunteer (P<.001). From highest to lowest, the rates were 77.38%, 77.03%, 65.48%, 64.11%, 62.71%, and 55.23% in Africa, Western Europe, East and Southeast Asia, Middle East, and Eastern Europe, respectively. Because of the high heterogeneity, the evidence from this study has moderate strength. CONCLUSIONS The majority of students are willing to volunteer during COVID-19, suggesting that volunteer recruitment is well-accepted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahsusi Mahsusi
- Department of Islamic Education Management, Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teacher Training, Universitas Islam Negeri Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, Tangerang Selatan, Indonesia
| | - Syihaabul Hudaa
- Department of Management, Institut Teknologi dan Bisnis Ahmad Dahlan Jakarta, Banten, Indonesia
| | - Nuryani Nuryani
- Department of Indonesian Language and Literature Education, Faculty of Tarbiyah and Teacher Training, Universitas Islam Negeri Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, Tangerang Selatan, Indonesia
| | - Mustofa Fahmi
- Ministry of Religious Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Ghina Tsurayya
- Medical Research Unit, School of Medicine, Universitas Syiah Kuala, Banda Aceh, Indonesia
| | - Muhammad Iqhrammullah
- Postgraduate Program of Public Health, Universitas Muhammadiyah Aceh, Banda Aceh, Indonesia
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Sojati J, Murali A, Rapsinski G, Williams JV. Do Not Throw Away Your Shot: Pilot Study in Improving Medical School Curricula Through Focused Vaccine Education. AJPM FOCUS 2024; 3:100178. [PMID: 38312525 PMCID: PMC10835123 DOI: 10.1016/j.focus.2023.100178] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2024]
Abstract
Introduction With widely prevalent vaccine hesitancy and medical mistrust, future healthcare providers require knowledge of vaccines and comfort in discussing vaccines with patients. However, many U.S. medical schools do not offer formal or elective curricula focused on vaccine education. Methods We sought to identify the need for such a curriculum and student gaps in knowledge through a pilot study surveying first- and second-year medical students at a large Pennsylvania medical school to assess knowledge about vaccine initiatives/policies, comfort in discussing vaccines, attitudes toward curricular changes, and effects of COVID-19 on willingness for vaccine education. Results Many participants (>40%) reported insufficient knowledge of vaccine policy, vaccine development and testing, and community vaccine initiatives. The majority (>50%) indicated discomfort in discussing vaccines in a clinical setting. Importantly, 79% of participants reported insufficient coverage of vaccine topics in the current curriculum. A total of 54% decisively wanted formal/mandatory education versus 72% who decisively wanted elective education. Desiring formal education was associated with less comfort in discussing vaccines overall and with vaccine-hesitant people in clinical settings. Reassuringly, 74% of participants noted that the COVID-19 pandemic made them want to learn more about vaccines. Guided by these findings, we conducted a pilot elective teaching about vaccines through case studies, interactive discussions, and role-playing scenarios. Pre- and postcourse surveys showed improvement in student knowledge in all vaccine-related topics assessed. Conclusions These data can inform the development of formal and elective curricula that effectively prepare medical students for patients' vaccine questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jorna Sojati
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Anjana Murali
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Glenn Rapsinski
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - John V. Williams
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Department of Microbiology & Molecular Genetics, School of Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Institute for Infection, Immunity, and Inflammation in Children, UPMC Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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Almansour M, Almoayad F. Exploring challenges and perceptions in the learning environment: an online qualitative study of medical students. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2024; 24:147. [PMID: 38355507 PMCID: PMC10868022 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-024-05116-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The teaching and learning environment (TLE) in medical schools is critical for shaping the outcomes and competencies of graduates. Research on TLE has highlighted its influence on student learning approaches and outcomes, yet gaps remain, particularly in qualitative insights, especially in Saudi Arabian contexts. This study aims to explore the students' experiences and perceptions of the TLE in a new medical college. METHODS This qualitative study consisted of a total of five focus group discussions (3consequtive sessions for male group and two for female group) conducted virtually using the Zoom videoconferencing application. All the discussion sessions took place during a lockdown because of the COVID-19 pandemic between December 2020 and February 2021. Each session lasted for 45-60 min. Each group was formed of 4-5 students from different academic levels in the Majmaah medical school, which was established 10 years ago and is located in a small city. After "verbatim transcription" of the sessions was made, a framework thematic analysis of the data was performed using the NVivo software. RESULTS The study results revealed that various elements, such as educational content, faculty roles, and personal factors, collectively influenced the students' educational experiences. The students valued educational relevance and autonomous decision-making. The multifunctional role of faculty as mentors, evaluators, and resource providers was considered essential in enhancing academic experiences. Additionally, there was an evident need to improve the physical learning environment and facilities to adapt to emerging educational needs. These results align with existing literature, emphasizing the integration of theory and practice and the significant impact of faculty roles in academic experiences. CONCLUSION The findings suggest that medical colleges should involve students more in decision-making related to their education and ensure the practical relevance of the educational content. Establishing open communication channels between students and faculty who act as mentors and evaluators is also essential. Furthermore, enhancing supportive infrastructures, such as mental health and financial services, and promoting extracurricular activities are crucial for fostering a more effective and nurturing learning environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed Almansour
- Department of Medical Education, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11461, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fatmah Almoayad
- Department of Health Sciences, College of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, Princess Nourah Bint Abdulrahman University, P.O. Box 84428, Riyadh, 11671, Saudi Arabia.
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Kim S, Jeong H, Cho H, Yu J. Extracurricular activities in medical education: an integrative literature review. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2023; 23:278. [PMID: 37087451 PMCID: PMC10122317 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-023-04245-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The importance of extracurricular activities (EAs) has been emphasized in medical education. These activities could enhance medical students' emotional and physical health and afford them developmental opportunities. Despite the growing amount of research related to this theme, few studies review and synthesize the existing literature. This study aims to provide an understanding of the educational implications of EAs in medical colleges and constructs an integrated conceptual framework concerning their types and learning outcomes by literature review. METHODS An integrative literature review was conducted following Torraco's method, with the aim to generate a new framework for the given topic. The authors utilized Scopus and PubMed as databases, using search terms "extracurricular," "medical," and "students." Initially, titles and abstracts were screened to include relevant studies, and the researchers verified the eligibility of the articles by following the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Of the 263 articles identified, 64 empirical studies were selected for further review. RESULTS EAs in undergraduate medical education can be classified into direct extracurricular activities and indirect extracurricular activities, the latter of which is sorted into nine sub-categories. We identified seven main categories regarding the learning outcomes of EAs. In addition to general activities (e.g., pro-social activities, team sports), some distinctive activities such as research have been largely addressed in previous studies. The results of EAs were discussed in relation to academic growth, career development, and psychological experiences. CONCLUSIONS This review identified the types and learning outcomes of EAs in the context of medical education, thereby suggesting ways to improve the quality of EAs and maximize their educational effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sejin Kim
- Office of Medical Education, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Hyeyoon Jeong
- Department of Medical Education, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Hyena Cho
- Department of Medical Education, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, South Korea
| | - Jihye Yu
- Department of Medical Education, Ajou University School of Medicine, Suwon, South Korea.
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Atta IS, Alghamdi AH, Alzaharni RA. Optimal Steps for designing and implementing the extracurriculars through the integrative medical approach. Heliyon 2023; 9:e13755. [PMID: 36895394 PMCID: PMC9988501 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e13755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 01/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/10/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Extracurriculars are those that fall outside the scope of the academic curriculum. The purpose of the work is to outline the steps of planning extracurriculars, practice these steps in the medical program, and evaluate these steps. Methods Using Kern's steps with some modifications, we did some extracurricular reforms. Assessment of the current situation/needs and identification of gaps have been occurred by a questionnaire that revealed low students' satisfaction (36.1%) about the current extracurriculars with points of weakness that have been addressed in the improvement plan. A list of extracurriculars was prepared and aligned with modules and learning outcomes. Allocation of resources and implementation of these extracurriculars were performed. The evaluation was done through a questionnaire that was fulfilled by 404 students. Results Students' satisfaction was 66.8% in the second questionnaire compared to 36% in the initial questionnaire with a significant association. Further analysis of the respondents who revealed satisfaction showed that 95 out of 140 (67.8%) were high-grade achievers, 88 out of 134 (65.7%) for moderate, and 87 out of 130 (66.9%) in low-grade achievers. A comparison of the student's satisfaction in the three phases revealed a significant p-value (0.004), but no significance in students' satisfaction within phases of the program between males and females. Conclusion Well-structured extracurriculars might contribute to the achievement of the mission, vision, and goals of the program. Extracurricular activities might be flexible and undergo periodic changes related to the nature of the curriculum. Following the cycle of developing extracurricular activities in designing, implementing, monitoring, evaluating, and reporting, the extracurricular activities will be more efficient in enhancing the learning climate and making the learning process more enjoyable, especially in a solid medical integrated curriculum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ihab Shafek Atta
- Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Azhar University, Assuit, Egypt.,Pathology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Baha University, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ali Hendi Alghamdi
- Ophthalmology Division, Surgery Department, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Baha University, Saudi Arabia
| | - Rajab A Alzaharni
- Otolaryngology Division, Surgery Department, Faculty of Medicine, Al-Baha University, Albaha, Saudi Arabia
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Ingram H, Rodriguez L, Meka J, Tumin D, Charles S. PhysioCamp: Cultivating Leaders Throughout Medical School. MEDICAL SCIENCE EDUCATOR 2022; 32:1309-1312. [PMID: 36415503 PMCID: PMC9672619 DOI: 10.1007/s40670-022-01686-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
To prepare medical students for leadership roles, medical student organizations should provide longitudinal leadership opportunities spanning the entire duration of the medical school curriculum. These long-term roles need to be adaptable to medical students' changing and busy schedules, provide a robust structure for communication, improve access to resources and mentors, and allow autonomy for individual decisions to facilitate effective engagement as a leader. We describe the design of a student-led organization, PhysioCamp, which facilitates opportunities for longitudinal medical student leadership through an internship program for high school graduates.
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly Ingram
- Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC USA
- Wake Forest School of Medicine, Winston-Salem, NC USA
| | - Lauren Rodriguez
- Thomas D. Arthur Graduate School of Business, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC USA
- College of Sciences and Mathematics, Auburn University, Auburn, AL USA
| | - Jahnavi Meka
- Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA USA
| | - Dmitry Tumin
- Brody School of Medicine, East Carolina University, Greenville, NC USA
| | - Stephen Charles
- Baylor College of Medicine, School of Medicine Temple Campus, Temple, TX USA
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