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The educational value of clinical electives
S C Harth1, N A Leonard, S M Fitzgerald
1Department of Child Health, University of Queensland, Mater Children's Hospital, South Brisbane, Australia.
Medical Education
|July 1, 1990
Summary
Medical students undertaking clinical electives reported significant educational value. While overseas electives offered more instruction, domestic placements provided greater responsibility and practical experience.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Student Experience
- Clinical Training
Background:
- Clinical electives are a crucial component of medical training.
- Understanding student experiences in different elective settings is vital for curriculum development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the experiences and perceived benefits of clinical electives among medical students.
- To compare domestic (Australia) versus international elective placements.
Main Methods:
- A survey was administered to 184 University of Queensland medical students post-elective.
- Data collected on destination, specialty, workload, instruction, supervision, practical experience, and encountered problems.
Main Results:
- Students reported significant educational value, with most finding electives worthwhile.
- Overseas electives (e.g., UK) provided more formal instruction.
- Australian placements offered greater responsibility and practical procedure experience.
- International electives presented more organizational, financial, and personal-social challenges.
Conclusions:
- Clinical electives offer substantial educational benefits for medical students.
- Both domestic and international electives have unique advantages and disadvantages.
- Addressing logistical and personal challenges in overseas electives can enhance the experience.