Swot Analysis: The Possibility as a Learning Tool in Medical Education Training (A Knowledge, Attitude and Practice-Based Study in Medical Students)

Abstract

BACKGROUNDSWOT analysis is an established age-old technique for aiding the formulation of strategy. Its application is utilized by different experts in various fields. It's an attempt to describe the issues raised by the practical challenges while using it in Medical Education teaching along with formal medical education with more effective learning. MATERIALS AND METHODSThis was a prospective cohort questionnaire-based study having educational training as an intervention. The study enclosed 24 students from II-year MBBS. To start with, the participants got a pretest form to check out the knowledge, attitude, and practices of SWOT analysis. The participants were given an article on SWOT analysis in Medical Sciences for reading purpose. Later the participants were given a training session on SWOT analysis by dividing them into four groups and were given a group task to prepare a SWOT analysis chart on any topics of their general interest. RESULTSThe study results show that the awareness, knowledge and correct spelling of SWOT was less than 25% which was increased by 70% from the baseline level after the training. About 40% participants agreed that there was a role of pharmacology teacher as a trainer. Awareness about multiple utilities of SWOT analysis increased upto 100% after the training. Knowledge of advantages and disadvantages of SWOT analysis showed jump to 50 to 65% after the training was imparted. In follow up questionnaire, more than 80% participants expressed a positive attitude towards recommending SWOT analysis to others for their various uses and even including this analysis technique as a part of curriculum in university. CONCLUSIONThe present study carried on undergraduate MBBS students showed that SWOT analysis training improve their knowledge about awareness and multiple utilities of SWOT analysis, its applications, advantages and disadvantages. Large number of students felt that SWOT analysis training can be incorporated in the curriculum and also that the training on SWOT analysis would improve the analytical skills in general and patient case management as well.