A national DREEM: exploring medical and dental students' perceptions on their learning environment across Hungary

Hungarian medical schools attract a diverse student body, enrolling numerous international and Hungarian students annually. The learning environment, encompassing all facets of their academic experience, significantly influences the overall educational experience at the medical schools. As the first nationwide survey, this study aimed to assess and compare the perceptions of international and Hungarian medical and dental students regarding their learning environment across the four medical schools in Hungary.

The Dundee Ready Education Environment Measure (DREEM) tool was used to get a better insight into the perceptions of international and Hungarian medical and dental students on their learning environment (LE). The questionnaire was distributed via social media platforms and the Neptun Educational System across the four medical schools in Hungary. To gain deeper insights into the participants' perceptions, a qualitative component was also added to the survey, comprising five open-ended questions. The research was carried out between April and October 2022. To analyse quantitative data, IBM SPSS was used, while the transcription and exploration of the qualitative data was performed using the Sketch Engine software.

A total of 1164 valid responses were received. The results illuminate similarities and differences in perceptions of the learning environment between international and Hungarian medical and dental students. As anticipated, international students' perceptions were somewhat less favourable compared to their domestic counterparts, who are generally more accustomed to the workings of the Hungarian higher educational system (total DREEM score was 118.1 for the former, and 122.6 for the latter student population). Notably, significant differences were observed in perceptions of teachers and the overall atmosphere.

The total score of the DREEM questionnaire was interpreted as "more positive than negative" for both international and Hungarian students, consistent with findings from other DREEM surveys, suggesting overall satisfaction with the learning environment. However, regular and ongoing evaluation of the learning environment is recommended in order to identify areas for improvement, ensure high standards of education, and continuously enhance the overall student experience.