Learning in a clinical education programme in primary care: the Maastricht Adoption Programme

INTRODUCTION At Maastricht University, the integration of knowledge, skills and attitudes in preclinical medical education is promoted by an 'Adoption Programme', where students carry out assignments in a general practice setting. The assignments are explained and discussed in practical medical coaching groups. The aim of this study was to examine the relationships between the elements that affect learning in the programme. METHOD Data from the evaluation questionnaires of 188 medical students were used to test a causal model of learning in the programme. A distinction was made between 'action' and 'reflection on action'. We examined the relationships between perceived instructiveness (the programme's value as a learning experience) and the following variables: comprehensibility; feasibility and execution of the assignments; time spent on the assignments, and the direct and indirect influences of the hosting general practitioner (GP) and the practical medical coaching group. RESULTS Performing the assignments had little effect on perceived instructiveness. Coaching by the hosting GP influenced the execution of assignments mainly by its effect on feasibility. Coaching by the GP and in the practical medical coaching groups barely affected perceived instructiveness. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION The model gives insight into the contribution of aspects of the Adoption Programme to student learning. The results are probably negatively influenced by the insufficient priority given to the Adoption Programme in the practical medical coaching groups and by inadequate instruction given to the GPs for the purposes of their coaching role. More careful planning of patient-related assignments is recommended. Reflection on assignments and feedback on procedures are needed to lift practical experience onto a higher educational level.