Perceptions on Simulation-Based Learning and Clinical Preparedness  Among 4th Year Medical Students: A Cross-Sectional Study

<ns3:p>Introduction Simulation-Based Learning (SBL) is a transformative approach in medical education, providing a safe environment for skill acquisition and refinement. This study assessed the perceptions and effectiveness of SBL among fourth-year medical students at a private medical school in a developing country, addressing the critical need for robust training amidst healthcare complexities and limited clinical exposure. Methods A retrospective, cross-sectional design analyzed anonymous survey data from 132 fourth-year medical students (Clinical Clerks) at the Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health. Students participated in mandatory SBL activities across various clinical disciplines during the 2023–2024 academic year. A web-based, custom questionnaire with a 5-point Likert scale and open-ended questions was used. Voluntary participation was considered implied informed consent. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Spearman's rank correlation; qualitative data underwent thematic analysis. Ethical approval was obtained from the Ateneo de Manila University Research Ethics Committee. Results All 132 students completed the survey (59% female, mean age 27 years). Students overwhelmingly perceived SBL as a valuable teaching modality (mean Likert score 4.5, median 5), agreeing it enhanced their learning, facilitated skill application, improved knowledge retention, and deepened clinical concept understanding. Significant positive correlations were found between perceived SBL usefulness and enhanced clinical concept comprehension (ρ=0.5576), clinical decision-making (ρ=0.6616), and psychomotor skills (ρ=0.6204). Qualitative feedback highlighted direct exposure to scenarios, a safe learning environment, and hands-on practice as key benefits. Challenges included inconsistent equipment realism, scheduling conflicts, and inconsistent instruction. Discussion This study confirms that medical students positively perceive SBL as an effective educational tool for clinical preparedness. While benefits are clear, addressing challenges related to equipment realism, scheduling, and consistent instruction is crucial for optimizing SBL's role in preparing future medical professionals, particularly in resource-limited settings and unique academic programs.</ns3:p>