Exploring the Factors Influencing Medical Student Engagement with Rural Clinical Placement Opportunities

Authors

  • Keith McNaught Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Perth, Australia
  • Colette Rhoding Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Perth, Australia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47381/aijre.v32i1.312

Keywords:

Rural clinical placements, rural, remote, rural education, medical

Abstract

Recruiting and retaining professionals such as doctors, allied health professionals, and teachers to rural communities has been a significant issue in Australia for decades. Research has established that a successful rural clinical placement, delivered in a rural setting, can significantly influence a graduate's work location choices. However, less is known about the factors that support or discourage a student's engagement with rural clinical placement opportunities. This research project used semi-structured interviews and thematic analysis to understand the factors experienced by Curtin Medical School's first cohort as they engaged with the opportunity to undertake a rural clinical placement. The project identified several motivators and barriers which enable the Medical School to modify and adapt processes for future students. The problematic barriers specific to undergraduate students are identified and warrant an appropriate plan for managing those obstacles. This research will form part of a broader longitudinal tracking of the Curtin University medical graduates to determine if the Curtin Medical School meets its stated objective to increase the number of graduates working in rural locations.

Author Biography

Colette Rhoding, Curtin Medical School, Curtin University, Perth, Australia

Since completing a Graduate Certificate in Education (Secondary/Tertiary) in 2004, Colette Rhoding has specialised in enabling student achievement and increasing access to education through online and blended delivery strategies. Her focus has been on disadvantaged, rural and remote students.  In addition to her academic work, Colette has leveraged her prior industry experience to deliver a number of successful grant projects in education and community organisations. 

 

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Published

21-03-2022

How to Cite

McNaught, K., & Rhoding, C. (2022). Exploring the Factors Influencing Medical Student Engagement with Rural Clinical Placement Opportunities. Australian and International Journal of Rural Education, 32(1), 70–84. https://doi.org/10.47381/aijre.v32i1.312

Issue

Vol. 32 No. 1 (2022): Rural Professional Learning: Systemic and Student Perspectives

Section

JOURNAL PAPERS

License

Copyright (c) 2022 Keith McNaught, Colette Rhoding

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