Evaluating the effectiveness of relationship-based support in medical programs

Principal Advisor: Professor Nalini Pather

Phone: +61 7 3346 4846

Organisational unit: Academy for Medical Education

The proposed research seeks to investigate the effectiveness and benefits of relationship-based support systems (such as learning coaches, learning advisors, mentors, and near-peer tutors) for medical students within programmatic assessment frameworks. With the increasing demands and stressors faced by medical students, and junior medical officers, fostering a supportive and nurturing learning environment is crucial not only for academic success but also for their overall wellbeing. Emerging evidence suggests that the key enabler of student success and wellbeing is the ability to foster positive relationship within the learning environment. This study aims to evaluate relationship-based support systems, particularly their impact on student mastery of skills, personal development and self-awareness, and mental resilience. By exploring the dynamics of these relationships and their potential to enhance the medical education experience, this study will contribute to the improvement of medical training programs.