Exploration of learning interests and perceptions of medical students on immune system physiology lecture topics: qualitative study

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Immunology is an important subject for medical students to understand the pathophysiology of diseases in general. For medical students at Negeri Gorontalo University (UNG), the topic of immune system physiology is relatively difficult to understand. This study aims to explore the interests and perceptions of medical students in learning this topic.METHODS: A qualitative research design was conducted on UNG medical students who attended Biomedical 2 immune system physiology lectures in April-June 2023. Samples were selected based on purposive and snowball sampling methods. Data were collected using questionnaires, interviews, and focus group discussions (FGD).RESULTS: Positive perceptions are expressed as follows: interesting lecturer, they understand more, and they are happy because they are directly involved, the method is not monotonous, they are enthusiastic because of the new method, they are happy because there is a video, and they are happy because conducting role-play. Negative perceptions are expressed as follows: lectures are boring, not everyone can play roles, friends are not optimal, boring because they are online, not memorable because they are only videos, and feel tense and nervous. Future expectations are expressed as follows: optimizing tutors, not too large classes, more proactive lecturers, drama is linked to daily cases, there are pre and post-tests, online classes are abolished, the duration of role-play is increased, and all students have the opportunity to play a role.CONCLUSIONS: Medical students’ learning interest in immune system physiology can be increased by increasing students’ positive perceptions through continuous improvements suggested by students.

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