Qualities of good medical teacher as perceived by medical (MBBS) students of a private medical college in Lahore, Pakistan

Abstract

Introduction: In human societies, teachers play a fundamental role; teacher is more than just an educator. The present research aims to analyze the perceptions of medical (MBBS) students towards the personality traits and qualities of an excellent teacher so that standards can be set for teaching philosophy.
 Methodology: This observational cross-sectional study was conducted at Azra Naheed Medical College, Superior University Lahore. After informed consent, 200 medical (MBBS) students of both genders participated in the study. Each student filled out a questionnaire compromising the qualities of an excellent medical teacher. 
 Result: According to the student responses, the most commonly agreed factor for an excellent medical teacher was 'Medical Teacher uses simple language' reported by 113 (56.5%) students, followed by 'Medical Teacher uses technology' in 107 (53.5%), 'Medical Teacher has command on the subject' in 106 (53.0%), 'Medical Teacher is enthusiastic about the subject' 105 (52.5%), 'Medical Teacher summarizes topic at the end of the lecture' 105 (52.5%), 'Medical Teacher announces topic one week before lecture' 96 (48.0%), Textbooks are allowed by Medical Teacher during lectures' (94 (47.0%), 'Medical Teacher begins class by asking questions related to the topic' 86 (43%), students reported 'Handouts are given to students by medical teacher' 83 (41.5%) and 61 (30.5%) students said 'There are breaks for discussions and group activities for students during class'.
 Conclusion: According to medical (MBBS) students, an excellent medical teacher uses simple language technology, has command of the subject, is enthusiastic and summarizes the topic at the end of the lecture.