A Qualitative Study on Factors Associated with Low Academic Performance among Medical Students

Abstract

Introduction: To ensure optimal quality of health care for the community, it is important to produce an efficient
primary care provider. In order to attain this quality we must ensure that all students achieve the required
standards. In spite of pre-set prescribed standards, the academic performance varies among medical students.
Objectives: 1. Describe the factors affecting the learning of medical students. 2. Explore the possible solutions to
improve their academic performance.
Materials and Methods: A total of 18 students and 12 faculties participated in the study. Among them, five Focus
Group Discussions (FGD) were carried out (three FGDs with students and two FGDs with faculties). The discussion
was guided by a facilitator and audio-recorded. Information from the audio was transcribed.
Results: Factors affecting learning include content of the class, class schedule, attention span, assessment pattern,
audio-visual aids, level of integration of classes, ability of the teacher and teaching learning methods used.
Solutions include field visits, hands-on training, appropriate use of audio-visual aids, integration of classes, active
participation in research, communication with peers, strict maintenance of attendance and motivation of the
students, etc,.
Conclusion: Addressing all the factors hindering the learning process by incorporating solutions suggested by
faculties and students may help the learners to improve their academic performance. It is important to teach the
topics with its practical application with an appropriate assessment pattern.