A Thematic Analysis on the Factors Influencing Lifelong Learning among Medical Students in Jiangxi Province, China

Abstract

The value of lifelong learning is indispensable in the field of medical education. This research aims to explore the factors that influence medical students‘ lifelong learning from the perspective of medical teachers. A total of ten front-line instructors who possessed substantial teaching experience in medical institutions located in Jiangxi Province, China, were chosen for individual semi-structured interviews through the use of purposive sampling. This study is guided by theories of adult learning, and thematic analysis is utilized to deduce the factors impacting medical students' lifelong learning. Identified factors include self-directed learning capabilities, learning habits, the acquisition of knowledge and skills, teachers' clinical experience, clinical practice, interdisciplinary learning, career planning, readiness for professional roles, information literacy, personal needs, and societal needs. Notably, self-directed learning capabilities, information literacy, and personal needs are crucial in influencing the lifelong learning of medical students.