ISSN 2360-7920
Abstract
Accepted 23rd May, 2017.
Learning environment faced by students has repercussion on students’ engagement with the course of study, aspirations, and academic achievement. Besides being measurable, the educational environment can also be modified. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the nature of Tikur Anbessa educational environment for medical students, in Addis Ababa. Aspects of the educational environment compared between sex, level, and phase of study and students’ perceptions. A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted to investigate the perceptions of the students on the educational environment of TA medical school, using the DREEM questionnaire. The study population was medical students of TA from Years I–V. 291 students randomly selected and the response rate 88% (n=256).The data were analyzed using the SPSS 20 software. DREEM subscales mean scores were calculated, and ANOVA and independent sampling test applied to determine significances differences. This study obtained ethical clearance from Health Sciences College of Addis Ababa University. The majority respondents were male 143(56%).The majority students’ (82%) GPA was above 3.25. Analysis of each DREEM 50 items inventory showed 9 items scored less than 2, in which the students’ indentified problem areas. 4 negative items scored less than 2 in which the student agreement with the statement. The rest 37 items mean score were between 2 and 3. The overall DREEM score of medical students’ perception was positive. This study signified medical students of Tikur Anbessa exhibited a positive perception of educational environment. Female and clinical year students had higher educational environment satisfactions. It also identified many problem areas denoted by mean scores between 2.0 and 3.0 for most items where rectifying measures needed. Areas with scores of less than 2.0 need further investigation to correct the underlying problems.
Keywords: Students’ perception, DREEM, Tikur Anbessa, Educational Environment