Table 3.
Thematic analysis of the student reforms to curricular changes like foundation course, attitude ethics, communication module, early clinical exposure, self-directed learning and family adoption programme (n=580)
| Themes on the challenges faced by students | Themes on the suggestions for improvement | Verbatims |
|---|---|---|
|
FC | ||
| FC was too lengthy | The duration of FC may be shortene | “FC sensitized us regarding the subjects, improved our interaction, we made friends, also had sports and extracurricular activities” |
| Missed some classes of FC due to late admissions | Language and computer skills can be optional | |
|
Aetcom module | ||
| AETCOM is more theoretical | AETCOM sessions can be in real-life scenarios like wards/OPD | “Interesting to learn concepts like empathy, ethics, communication which are not taught routinely” |
| Role-plays become monotonous after a few sessions | Sharing real-life experiences by faculty helpful | |
|
Early clinical exposure | ||
| Time constraints in the wards | Smaller batches for visits to wards | “Made students feel like doctors and it helped in application of knowledge and relevance of basic sciences” |
| Shortage of clinical faculty | Virtual tours, and live-streamed procedures in classroom settings | |
|
Self directed learning | ||
| The process of SDL is not clear | Better faculty training and student sensitization | “Students learn more and the learning is in-depth. SDL promoted student research” |
| SDL may not be suitable for all students | Uniform and standard protocols about SDL | |
|
Family adoption programme | ||
| Going to the village multiple times is difficult | Faculty can accompany students | “We understood the life of people in the village. Improved community engagement. Learnt health practices in the families and awareness of myths and perception about the health conditions” |
| People are hesitant to share their personal information | Reduce the number of visits | |
| Migratory population | Telecommunication may be helpful | |
FC: Foundation course; SDL: Self-directed learning; ECE: Early clinical exposure; AETCOM: Attitude ethics, communication module; OPD: Out-patient department