Do Physician Assistant Students Use Retrieval-Based Strategies While Studying?

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Cognitive Psychology
• Learning Science

Background:

• Active retrieval, or testing, is a proven method for enhancing knowledge retention.
• Despite its effectiveness, active retrieval is underutilized by many students.
• This study focuses on physician assistant (PA) students' study habits.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the study strategies employed by PA students.
• To determine the extent to which retrieval-based strategies (RBS) are used by PA students.
• To identify potential areas for improving learning and exam preparation in PA programs.

Main Methods:

• A survey instrument, adapted from existing research, was administered to first-year PA students.
• Study behaviors were examined over a 4-week period leading up to multiple-choice exams.
• The survey focused on identifying common study techniques and the use of RBS.

Main Results:

• Out of 78 surveyed students, 88% completed the study.
• The most frequent study methods included reviewing lecture slides (83%), reading notes (78%), and note-taking (73%).
• Retrieval-based strategies were less common, with practice testing used by 38% and self-created question/answer by 12%.

Conclusions:

• A significant number of PA students are not fully utilizing effective retrieval-based study strategies.
• PA students may benefit from greater understanding of RBS and how to implement them.
• Faculty guidance is recommended to help students integrate RBS into their study routines for improved academic outcomes.