The relationship between course management and examination attrition rates among undergraduate medical students at the University of Zambia
Date
2020
Authors
Daka, Harrison
Banda, Sekelani S
Namafe, Charles M
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Course Management and Examination Attrition Rate
Abstract
This study investigated the relationship between course management and
examination attrition rates among undergraduate medical students at the
University of Zambia’s School of Medicine between 2008 and 2016. An
explanatory sequential research design was used for data collection and
data were gathered using a survey instrument, focus group discussions
and interviews with key informants. The quantitative data from the first set
were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics while the qualitative data from the second set were analysed using the constant comparative
method. The findings indicate that there was a significant statistical difference in the course workloads in all programmes (p = 0.000, F = 4, 596,
d f = 8.53). The course loads were heavy, with little time allocated to them.
Course concepts were not taught in depth, resulting in student perceptions
that the courses were difficult. The findings point to the urgent need to
revise or review the course content of several programmes to align it with
the time allocated. Furthermore, the Department of Medical Education and
Development should consider organising specific pedagogical training programmes for existing and newly-employed academic staff.
Key words: quality education, attrition rates, course management
Description
Article
Keywords
Course management--Medical students.