Factors Influencing Medical Students' Experiences and Satisfaction with Blended Integrated E-Learning

Med Princ Pract. 2020;29(4):396-402. doi: 10.1159/000505210. Epub 2019 Dec 5.

Abstract

Objectives: Blended learning has been presented as a promising learner-centred model that emphasises the learning outcome rather than the process of education, but it can negatively affect learners' engagement with learning.

Subject and methods: Using a mixed-methods approach, this study aimed to determine the significant predictors of learning satisfaction and to evaluate the experiences of medical students with the different domains of an introduced blended integrated learning approach.

Results: The survey was administered to 92 respondents with a mean age of 20.5 years. Male students had significantly higher computer self-efficacy and overall learner satisfaction ratings than their female counterparts. Multiple regression analysis showed that gender (student characteristics), performance expectations (cognitive factors), and learning climate (social environment) were predictors of the perceived satisfaction of learners.

Conclusion: Wider integration of blended learning into pre-clinical undergraduate medical education could enhance the shift towards competency-based education and life-long learning among medical students. However, effective implementation would depend largely on student characteristics, as well as environmental and cognitive components of the delivery method.

Keywords: Blended learning; E-Learning; Learner satisfaction; Medical education.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Cognition
  • Computer-Assisted Instruction / methods*
  • Education, Distance* / methods
  • Education, Medical, Undergraduate / methods
  • Humans
  • Learning*
  • Male
  • Personal Satisfaction*
  • Queensland
  • Students, Medical / psychology*
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Young Adult