A Qualitative Analytic Study of Phase 1 MBBS Students Regarding the Perceptions and Utility of Foundation Course in New Curriculum at Government Medical College, Patiala.

Abstract

Introduction: Foundation course (FC) is first step in the competency based medical education in Phase I MBBS. The duration of the foundation course is 1 month. Since the implementation of foundation course it was observed that students and faculty had variable perspectives about the foundation course. This study provides the insight about the real versus reality of the student and teachers’ perspective. Aim: To assess the students and faculty perception about the foundation course Material and method: Cross -sectional retrospective study on 200 Phase I MBBS students. Questionnaire was provided to the phase I MBBS students for their feedback on foundation course. Results: 93% of students approved of the orientation and 90 % agree on the skill module of Foundation Course to be beneficial and felt it was necessary for them to be prepared for the medical college.65 % agree for professional development and ethics module. 63% disagree of the sports activity and felt it should be optional. 69.5% felt that that duration of 1 month is too long and should be reduced to shorter duration. 92.5% students disagree of computer class due to longer duration. Discussion: Overall students showed positive feedback towards the foundation course. Foundation course helped students to get first exposure on management of medical emergencies through skill modules. However subjects like language and computer skills scored unfavorable remarks mainly due to longer duration and being less beneficial. This demands the flexibility of hours provided for these skills as it varies from region to region. Also students felt that teaching professionalism at this stage was too early while they are still rooting in the medical college.