What are the views of medical students?
Students express various emotions, from enjoyment to frustration, when sharing their experiences studying medicine. While some appreciate their independence as medical students, others feel unsupported. Many value the learning opportunities provided by specialist lecturers and the variety of teaching methods used, including problem-based learning (PBL), small group sessions, and practical skills training.
However, several issues with the course structure and organisation are consistently highlighted. Students find it challenging to retain information when they have limited time on each placement block, particularly in years 3 and 4. They often feel rushed, leading to difficulties in absorbing crucial knowledge. The expansion of the medical school has resulted in overcrowding on placements, negatively impacting learning opportunities.
Assessments are another area of concern. Students report feeling underprepared for exams due to inadequate feedback and unclear expectations about their assessment. Some find certain assessments more "tick-box exercises" than valuable learning experiences. The quality of online resources is also frequently criticised, with some deemed woefully poor.
Placement organisation is another issue, with students expressing frustration about delayed announcements of placement locations and schedules. Some placements are highly valued for their structured rotations and dedicated teaching time, while others are seen as less beneficial due to inadequate support from lead consultants or hospital staff.
Despite these challenges, many students appreciate the clinical skills training they receive and value the opportunities to work with junior doctors and other healthcare professionals. They feel such interactions enhance their learning experience and prepare them for future medical careers.