To Assess the Attitude of MBBS Students towards Implementation of Early Clinical Exposure Module in First Professional Year Subjects

Background: Early clinical exposure (ECE) is an educational approach that introduces medical students to clinical settings and patient interactions during the early stages of their training. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge acquired in the classroom and practical skills required in clinical practice. This study aims to assess the attitude of MBBS students towards implementing ECE modules in their 1st professional year subjects. Methods: This study was conducted amongst MBBS students of 2nd (Batch 2020-2021) and 3rd (Batch 2019-2020) professional years, who have undergone full 90 hours of ECE module of all three preclinical subjects in their 1st year. The perception of students toward ECE was assessed using 5-point Likert scale responses through a validated feedback questionnaire. Results: 43% of students strongly agreed that the implementation of the ECE module changed their perspective on learning pre-clinical subjects. 44.7% strongly agreed that the hours allotted to each subject were satisfying. 48.5% strongly agreed that ECE teaching method helped them sensitize to the clinical setting. 46.6% strongly agreed that ECE helped them better assimilate knowledge on the topic. 44% strongly agreed that the technique will better equip them to apply the knowledge when the opportunity arises. 43.4% strongly agreed that the training method in ECE has enhanced their knowledge than before the module's implementation. Conclusion: This study's findings suggest that MBBS students have been positively received by implementing Early Clinical Exposure (ECE) modules in the first professional year subjects. The ECE technique will better equip medical students to apply their knowledge in clinical scenarios, indicating the potential effectiveness of ECE in bridging the gap between theoretical learning and practical application in clinical practice. These results underscore the importance of incorporating ECE modules into medical education curricula to enhance student learning experiences and prepare future healthcare professionals for clinical practice. KEYWORDS: Early Clinical Exposure, Modules, Students’ Attitude, Competency-Based Undergraduate Curriculum, Professional Years, Medical Education, Implications.