Measuring Self-Directed Readiness (SDLR) of internal medicine trainees and the impact of covid pandemic on their training and learning acquisitions cross-sectional study

Despite pandemic challenges, Saudi Arabian internal medicine residents maintained high SDL readiness. The pandemic did not substantially alter SDL preparation concerning information sources, gender, or exam scores. Reading habits indicative of self-directed learning commitment positively influenced SDL preparedness. Larger sample sizes may be necessary to definitively assess SDL preparedness differences between first-year residents and the third- to fourth-year colleagues. These findings underscore the adaptability and resilience of medical students during global health crises, highlighting the importance of self-directed learning in medical education.