Medical Students’ Perspectives on the Integrated Modular System: Insights from Multiple Institutions in Karachi

BACKGROUND: By encouraging multidisciplinary teaching, the integrated modular system (IMS) is revolutionising medical training; nonetheless, more research is needed to understand student effectiveness and satisfaction to enhance medical education. OBJECTIVE: To assess the undergraduate medical students' perspectives regarding the integrated-modular system. METHODS: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was carried out in public sector medical colleges throughout Karachi over a period of six months (July 2023 – December 2023). Using a modified questionnaire taken from a previously published study, data were gathered. It centred on four essential elements: module content, teaching and learning, module support, and assessment with feedback. To guarantee widespread participation, the survey was conducted in person at many universities. The gathered data was analysed systematically with Microsoft Excel. RESULTS: A total of 400 replies were looked at. The participants' average age was around 21 ± 2.31 years. Female respondents made up the majority (68.8%, n = 275). The research showed that Module Content garnered the highest satisfaction rate at 68.9% (275 students), signifying robust endorsement of the material. With a moderate satisfaction level of 53.8% (215 students), Module Support indicates potential areas for enhancement. Nonetheless, Module Teaching and Learning and Module Assessment and Feedback encountered greater dissatisfaction, with 51.5% (206 students) and 53.4% (213 students) respectively. CONCLUSION: Although students appreciate the content of the modules, the efficacy of the modular approach has to be increased via better instruction, evaluations, and assistance.