Advocating workplace learning in medical education

Abstract

The journey of a medical student during the undergraduate training period is quite challenging as they are expected to become competent in a wide range of attributes which are essential to a future health-care professional. It is quite obvious that considering the complex nature of attributes that a medical student must acquire, we must expose them to a number of learning opportunities, preferably in their workplace settings. Various learning theories have explained the ways, in which a medical student can learn various skills in workplace settings. However, it is the responsibility of the teacher to optimize the learning experience. Workplace learning in the field of medicine carries immense potential and offers a crucial opportunity for teachers to shape the career of medical students, who will be our future health-care providers. To conclude, workplace learning is an indispensable component of the medical curriculum. As we move forward in our global vision to improve the health indicators and quality of life of the members of the community, we have to strengthen workplace learning across all medical institutions worldwide and this will essentially require the support of all the stakeholders.