Designing a Logbook to Enhance Pedagogical Effectiveness in Public Health Internships in Morocco

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to identify and delineate the essential components to be included in the public health internship logbook for medical students during their internships at health center facilities. Key elements to be defined include educational objectives, as well as specific skills and tasks that students are expected to acquire throughout their internship experience. Materials and methods: A comprehensive methodology was developed, structured into three distinct phases. The first phase utilized the Delphi technique to establish pedagogical objectives for public health internships. The second phase involved analyzing feedback from public health professionals who supervise students at health centers. The third and final phase focused on synthesizing internship reports submitted by students. Results: This study resulted in the definition of a set of public health competencies encompassing the knowledge, skills, and attitudes required of medical students during their internships. It also facilitated the development of specific tasks to be accomplished in order to meet these educational objectives. Additionally, self-evaluation forms for students and evaluation forms for supervisors to assess and validate the completed tasks were prepared. Conclusion: This work highlights the essential elements for the development of a public health internship Logbook for medical students in health centers. The integration of an internship guide, based on clearly defined pedagogical objectives and a competency-based approach, along with self-assessment and validation tools, significantly enhances student performance. By promoting individual reflection and experience sharing, this process not only improves practical skills but also encourages learners to develop critical thinking and self-confidence. This contribution is valuable and relevant for a wide audience, including students, teachers, researchers, curriculum developers and policymakers. It highlights the crucial role of health center internships in shaping medical education and training.