Experiential Learning Values Based on Kolb Theory: A Qualitative Output in the School of Medical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia

Abstract

Clinical placements serve as workplace-based experiences, which is essential for medical students to develop their skills to become competent doctors. Multiple teaching and learning methods are implemented to achieve these goals, e.g. lectures, problem-based learning, simulations, community-based education, and work-place based learning, i.e. in hospital settings. Three online focus group discussion (FGD) were conducted to explore student’s experiential learning in clinical placement. Thematic analyses were implemented to emerge the themes. Nine themes which were derived: authentic work-process experience, gaining insights from patient conditions, contextual feedback, conceptualised professional attributes, ideate future career, enhance self-regulation, practice communicative approach, practice collaborative learning and acquisition of clinical skills. The themes were discussed according to the phases in the Kolb experiential learning cycle. The findings can serve as the basis for reflection and feedback in clinical placements.