A mixed methods approach to explore free time management in first year healthcare students at Hanoi Medical University

Free time management is a crucial life skill, particularly for healthcare students. While global studies highlight its benefits for personal growth, little attention has been given to this issue in Vietnam. Therefore, our study was conducted to describe the free time management and related factors among first year healthcare students at Hanoi Medical University. The study employed a cross-sectional sequential explanatory mixed-methods design. A census-based survey with voluntary participation was conducted among first-year students at Hanoi Medical University from June to December 2024, yielding 610 valid responses analyzed using the Free Time Management Scale. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, multivariable logistic and linear regression models. Based on the quantitative results, 12 students with diverse management levels and characteristics were purposively selected for semi-structured in-depth interviews to contribute to the qualitative study. Qualitative data were evaluated utilizing thematic content analysis. The study identified three constructs of free time management: Free Time Technique (M = 3.09-3.40), Free Time Attitudes (M = 3.51-3.77), and Scheduling (M = 2.77-3.42). While the study pointed to part-time work (aOR = 1.44) and recording tasks by electronic devices (aOR = 2.09-2.40) as facilitators, excessive available free time was associated with lower management scores. Interviews highlighted the influence of both personal factors and external pressures on students’ time management. The study found that students could manage free time, with challenges in scheduling. Both personal factors (self-discipline, procrastination) and external influences (academic workload, part-time jobs, task-managing methods and available free time) played important roles. Expanding research and providing training programs on free time management are essential for students’ personal growth and well-being. Not applicable.