Impact and copying mechanisms towards retakes: A case study of five health training institutions in Sub Saharan Africa
2024

Impact of Retakes in Health Training Institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa

Sample size: 764 publication 10 minutes Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Kibuuka Ronald, Katuramu Richard, Owusu-Sekyere Samuel, Atuhairwe Irene, Agaba Brian, Nakattudde Prossy, Amponsah Abigail, Chizoma Ndikom, Oluwakemi Ogah, Kiyimba Kennedy, Baker Obakiro Samuel, Kaminga Atipasta, Epuitai Joshua, Kagoya Kawala Enid, Chimbe Etta, Baluwa Masumbuko, Munthali Getrude, Tamala Phiri Getrude, Kibuuke Dan, Mpasa Ferastas

Primary Institution: Busitema University

Hypothesis

What is the impact of academic retakes on medical and nursing students in Sub-Saharan Africa?

Conclusion

The study reveals that retakes in health professions education lead to significant emotional and psychological challenges for students, highlighting the need for improved support systems.

Supporting Evidence

  • 12.6% of students reported having a retake in clinical assessments.
  • Many students experienced emotional challenges such as anxiety and suicidal thoughts due to retakes.
  • Students reported a lack of feedback after assessments, making it hard to improve.
  • Peer and family support were crucial for students facing retakes.
  • Students suggested the need for better institutional support and feedback mechanisms.

Takeaway

When students in health training fail exams, it can make them feel really sad and stressed, and they need more help to do better next time.

Methodology

Mixed-methods explanatory sequential study with quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews.

Potential Biases

Potential biases in assessment due to personal relationships between students and lecturers.

Limitations

The study may not represent all health training institutions in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Participant Demographics

Participants included 764 medical and nursing students, predominantly female (61.9%), aged 18-48 years, with a mean age of 25.38 years.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.001

Statistical Significance

p<0.001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.21203/rs.3.rs-5374432

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