Action research for improving Medical Education Department practices in Pakistan

TY - JOUR

T1 - Action research for improving Medical Education Department practices in Pakistan

AU - Arjumand, Juveria

AU - Azfar, Syed Muhammad

AU - Azim, Syeda Rubaba

AU - Alkhadragy, Rania

N1 - Publisher Copyright: © 2026 National University of Singapore.

PY - 2026/4

Y1 - 2026/4

N2 - Introduction: The necessity for evaluating the effectiveness of medical education departments (DME) arises from the rapid technological advancements, frequent updates in healthcare paradigms and increasing societal demands. Such evaluations are crucial to understand how DMEs influence the future healthcare workforce and the quality of healthcare delivery. This research aims to explore the functions, procedures, and potential areas for innovation and improvement within DMEs. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted at Liaquat College of Medicine and Dentistry's Department of Medical Education, involving two focus groups of seven faculty members each. Participants included both junior and senior faculty to ensure diverse perspectives. One session was held in person and the other online via Zoom, accommodating participants' schedules. This was followed by Thematic analysis using Braun and Clarke (2006). Results: The study identified several strengths within the Liaquat College of Medicine and Dentistry DME, including robust faculty development programs and strong student support services. However, areas of concern were highlighted such as research infrastructure and interdisciplinary connections. While faculty members expressed their satisfaction with the provided academic support services, they have reported the need for improving available research resources and faculty development programs. Conclusion: The study underscores the significant role of DMEs in medical education and suggests fostering joint research projects, encouraging faculty development, and enhancing student support services. Implementing these recommendations is crucial for advancing medical education and maintaining high standards of excellence. Continuous examination and implementation of these suggestions will ensure that DMEs can adapt to and meet the challenges of an ever-evolving healthcare landscape.

AB - Introduction: The necessity for evaluating the effectiveness of medical education departments (DME) arises from the rapid technological advancements, frequent updates in healthcare paradigms and increasing societal demands. Such evaluations are crucial to understand how DMEs influence the future healthcare workforce and the quality of healthcare delivery. This research aims to explore the functions, procedures, and potential areas for innovation and improvement within DMEs. Methods: A qualitative study was conducted at Liaquat College of Medicine and Dentistry's Department of Medical Education, involving two focus groups of seven faculty members each. Participants included both junior and senior faculty to ensure diverse perspectives. One session was held in person and the other online via Zoom, accommodating participants' schedules. This was followed by Thematic analysis using Braun and Clarke (2006). Results: The study identified several strengths within the Liaquat College of Medicine and Dentistry DME, including robust faculty development programs and strong student support services. However, areas of concern were highlighted such as research infrastructure and interdisciplinary connections. While faculty members expressed their satisfaction with the provided academic support services, they have reported the need for improving available research resources and faculty development programs. Conclusion: The study underscores the significant role of DMEs in medical education and suggests fostering joint research projects, encouraging faculty development, and enhancing student support services. Implementing these recommendations is crucial for advancing medical education and maintaining high standards of excellence. Continuous examination and implementation of these suggestions will ensure that DMEs can adapt to and meet the challenges of an ever-evolving healthcare landscape.

KW - Medical Education Department,

KW - qualitative study,

KW - action research

KW - focus group

KW - roles

KW - Focus Group

KW - Medical Education Department

KW - Action Research

KW - Qualitative Study

UR - https://www.webofscience.com/api/gateway?GWVersion=2&SrcApp=pure_staging_and_production&SrcAuth=WosAPI&KeyUT=WOS:001738204600014&DestLinkType=FullRecord&DestApp=WOS_CPL

UR - https://www.scopus.com/pages/publications/105035875590

U2 - 10.29060/TAPS.2026-11-2/OA3754

DO - 10.29060/TAPS.2026-11-2/OA3754

M3 - Article

SN - 2424-9335

VL - 11

SP - 102

EP - 113

JO - The Asia Pacific Scholar

JF - The Asia Pacific Scholar

IS - 2

ER -