Student Engagement from the Medical Trainees' Perspective and Associated Factors: A Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Curriculum Development
• Student Engagement

Background:

• Student engagement in curriculum development is increasingly recognized.
• Limited data exists on medical trainees' perspectives in Japan.
• Teacher authority emphasis in Japan may hinder student engagement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the current status of student engagement in curriculum development from Japanese medical trainees' viewpoints.
• To identify factors influencing trainees' perceptions of student engagement.

Main Methods:

• Nationwide cross-sectional study in Japan (April-May 2025).
• Anonymous online questionnaire for postgraduate Year-0 residents.
• Analysis included descriptive statistics, linear mixed-effects models, and inductive content analysis.

Main Results:

• 57.2% participation rate (428/748).
• 24.5% unaware of engagement initiatives; 8.9% reported participation.
• Moderate perception of opinion reflection (mean score 5.41/10); themes of "desire for more input" and "disappointment" emerged.
• Female trainees reported more favorable perceptions than males.

Conclusions:

• Awareness, implementation, and perceived value of student engagement are limited among Japanese medical trainees.
• Medical educators need structural/cultural reforms and tailored strategies.
• Enhancing student voice is crucial for effective medical education.