Exploring the Perception of Learning Environment among Undergraduate Medical Students in South India – A Cross-Sectional Study

Authors

Suba A, Department of Physiology, A.C.S Medical College & Hospital, Dr.M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute, Chennai, Tamilnadu, IndiaFollow
Suma S, Department of Physiology, Saveetha Medical College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Saveetha University, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
Shobana R, Department of Physiology, A.C.S Medical College & Hospital, Dr.M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India
Abeetha S, Department of Physiology, A.C.S Medical College & Hospital, Dr.M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India
Chitra M, Department of Physiology, A.C.S Medical College & Hospital, Dr.M.G.R. Educational and Research Institute, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India
Shruthy K M, Department of Anatomy, Sri Lalithambigai Medical College & Hospital, Dr.M.G.R. Eduactional and Research Institute, Chennai, Tamilnadu, India.

Abstract

Purpose: The term "learning environment" refers to the combined social, physical, and psychological context in which the students learn. While a dismissive environment can lead to stress and burnout, a supportive environment enhances professionalism and academic success. Students' perceptions of the medical school learning environment might vary significantly depending on their age, gender, kind of institution and based on their academic year. Comprehending the disparities in perceptions towards the educational setting related to the above said variations may aid in devising interventions that promote favourable experiences for medical students. This study aimed to assess perception of learning environment by South Indian Medical Undergraduate students.

Methods: This cross-sectional study included medical undergraduate students from various medical colleges in South India across all batches. The data was collected through google form which included personal details and modified Dundee Ready Educational Environment Measure(mDREEM) questionnaire.It consists of 17 questions and the dependent variables were categorised under five domains. SPSS was used for statistical analysis.

Results: Total respondents were 854 students (response rate = 94.88%). Total mDREEM mean score was 43/68 (57.2%). Highest score was found in the domain of student's perceptions of Teachers (58.7%) and lowest in domain of Student's Social Self-perception (53.7%). There was significant difference of total mDREEM score, between Government and private institutions. The analysis of students' perceptions based on their academic year revealed a statistically significant difference between Phase 1 and the subsequent years.

Conclusions: According to our study, institutional type and academic year had a positive influence on learning environment among South Indian. Findings underscore the importance of resource allocation, student support, and engagement strategies to enhance the learning experience further. These insights can guide improvements in medical education environments to foster student satisfaction and success.

Recommended Citation

A, Suba; S, Suma; R, Shobana; S, Abeetha; M, Chitra; and K M, Shruthy (2025) "Exploring the Perception of Learning Environment among Undergraduate Medical Students in South India – A Cross-Sectional Study," Health Professions Education: Vol. 11: Iss. 2, Article 4.
DOI: 10.55890/2452-3011.1330
Available at: https://hpe.researchcommons.org/journal/vol11/iss2/4