Time management in paraguayan medicine students

Abstract

Introduction: efficient time management is emerging as a core competency of medical students. This skill is imperative, as it enables them to manage their agendas effectively, thus avoiding the stress inherent in their training and ensuring successful performance, improving the balance between their academic and personal commitments by making relevant decisions, such as the effective prioritization of tasks and the prevention of overload situations that may undermine their performance. Methodology: this was a descriptive observational study of prevalence and cross-association conducted in medical students in Paraguay to determine their time management. To measure time management, the Spanish version of the Time Management Behavior Questionnaire for University Students was used, which is a self-administered instrument that includes 34 items related to how students manage their learning and study time. Results: the correlation between quantitative variables showed a relationship between age and the subscale "setting goals and priorities" (r=-0.208; p=0.038); this association was indirect and weak. In terms of mean differences, a relationship was found between sex and the subscale "time management tools" (t=-2.37; gl=98; p=0.020), with men (2.61 ± 0.89) having a lower mean than women (3.04 ± 0.74). Conclusions: the aspect that scored the lowest was the preference for disorganization. This characteristic, in contrast to the high score given to goal setting and prioritization, points to a tendency towards a structured and orderly approach to learning, thus avoiding a lack of planning in activities.