Evaluation of Perception of Phase 1 and Phase 2 MBBS Students Regarding Aetcom Module Based Learning in a Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital: A Questionnaire Based, Cross-sectional Study
Abstract
Background: The National Medical Commission introduced Competency-Based Medical Education (CBME) in India, incorporating the Attitude, Ethics and Communication (AETCOM) module to enhance communication skills, ethical competence, and professional behavior among medical undergraduates. Evaluating students’ perception of this module is crucial for assessing its effectiveness. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study was conducted among Phase 1 (batch 2024–25) and Phase 2 (batch 2025–26) MBBS students at GMC Kathua after Institutional Ethics Committee approval. A pre validated questionnaire comprising 10 items assessing perceptions of AETCOM was administered via Google Forms. A total of 200 responses were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square test, with p<0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Most students did not perceive the module as an academic burden and found it beneficial (p=0.01). Case scenarios and role plays were the most preferred learning methods. Awareness of bioethics principles (93.1% vs 49.5%) and institutional ethics committees (80.4% vs 52.2%) was significantly greater among Phase 2 students (p<0.0001). The majority of students in both groups agreed that AETCOM improved communication skills, doctor–patient relationships and clinical decision-making. Summative assessment was preferred over formative assessment. Conclusion: Students demonstrated a positive perception of the AETCOM module with greater awareness among Phase 2 students. Early and enhanced exposure to bioethics and ethics committees is needed for Phase 1 students. Student-centered teaching approaches are needed to strengthen competency development.
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