Perceived Impact of Active Pedagogy in Medical Students' Learning at the Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Casablanca

Abstract

Background: Learning through active methods is recognized for facilitating material assimilation, increasing motivation, improving performance, and fostering autonomy among medical students. Despite these advantages, some difficulties persist for certain students, and traditional teaching methods continue to dominate in medical faculties.  Objective: This study aims to describe the viewed impact of active pedagogy methods and students' perception towards them.  Population and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among medical students at the Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy of Casablanca in November and December 2023. The sample size was calculated using Epi Info 7.2.5.0 software, and probabilistic sampling was used to determine our sample. Data were collected using an electronic questionnaire (Google Forms) containing questions about the impact and perception of active pedagogy, then processed and analyzed using R software while maintaining confidentiality and data protection.  Results: Out of a total of 442 students who were mostly female (57.2%), a large portion (83.0%) were unfamiliar with the concept of active pedagogy. However, the most well-known active pedagogy methods were simulation, practical and directed work, and clinical cases among 54.0% of students, role-playing, group work, and presentations among 44.2%, as well as e-learning among 32.7%. The results showed that the majority of students recognized the benefits of active pedagogy: it increases educational performance (86.8%) and engagement (77.7%), helps succeed in evaluations (80.4%), boosts motivation (80%), fosters autonomy (79.5%), and prepares for professional life according to 81.3% of students. Over 82% of students favored replacing traditional pedagogy with active pedagogy.  Conclusion: Active methods are highly appreciated by medical students for their ability to promote autonomous learning and high educational performance. However, despite their satisfaction, these methods remain underutilized, and some students still encounter difficulties. The majority of students support their generalization as a replacement for traditional methods.