The Effect of Prior Work and Educational Experience on Medical School Small Group Case-Based Learning

Authors

• Alexandra Kelleher, Thomas Jefferson UniversityFollow
• Alisa LoSasso, MD, Nemours duPont Department of PediatricsFollow

Document Type

Abstract

Publication Date

2-11-2026

Academic Year

2025-2026

Comments

Presented at the 2026 Scholarly Inquiry (SI) Research Project Symposium.

Abstract

Purpose

Medical students have varied academic and professional backgrounds, many taking gap years in healthcare or research before matriculation. Prior studies suggest these experiences may reduce burnout, enhance patient skills, and improve teamwork capabilities, but their impact on early case-based learning (CBL) performance and perceived comfort level is unclear. This study explores how prior healthcare and research experience influence perceived preparedness and participation for first-year medical students in CBL at SKMC.

Methods

This mixed-methods study was conducted among 66 rising second-year JeffMD students. Participants completed an online 15-item survey assessing undergraduate background and self-reported confidence in CBL. Ten students were then randomly selected for semi-structured Zoom interviews to further elaborate on the survey. Quantitative data was analyzed using Pearson Chi-square and correlation tests in SPSS.

Results and Conclusions

The main significant association (p< 0.05) found using Pearson Chi Square tests was between college lecture style and reported comfort in CBL. While not significant, there was also a negative linear correlation between college graduation year and comfort in CBL compared to peers and a positive linear correlation between research experience and perceived healthcare impact on comfort level. Finally, those with clinical job experience (EMT, PA, CANA, nurse) were more likely to rate these experiences as having a greater impact on their small group learning due to communication and real-world application skills, while students with research backgrounds expressed its benefit for analytical thinking and topic exposure. Further research with larger cohorts could further clarify how experiential learning shapes early medical education.

Recommended Citation

Kelleher, Alexandra and LoSasso, MD, Alisa, "The Effect of Prior Work and Educational Experience on Medical School Small Group Case-Based Learning" (2026). Phase 1. Paper 4.
https://jdc.jefferson.edu/si_me_2028_phase1/4

Language

English