Factors affecting learning during internship: A qualitative study of junior doctors

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Sociocultural Learning Theory

Background:

• Internship is a critical phase for medical graduate development.
• Understanding intern learning experiences is essential for optimizing training.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore what medical interns learn during their internship.
• To identify sources of learning and influencing environmental factors for interns.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study employing Vygotsky's sociocultural theory.
• Exploration of intern learning experiences within their clinical environment.

Main Results:

• Interns learned expected content, building on prior knowledge with guidance.
• Conducive learning environments facilitated growth, but unassisted complex situations were challenging.
• Workplace dynamics, supervisors, and individual learner characteristics impacted learning.

Conclusions:

• The learning environment significantly influences intern outcomes.
• Supportive and safe clinical learning environments are paramount for effective medical internships.