Abstract

Academic learning environment influences students’ learning and performances. This study determined the learning environment at Nile University of Nigeria Medical School and compared it with some established medical schools nationally and internationally. A total of 142 medical students at Nile University of Nigeria, Abuja were sampled. Data on learning, teaching, academic self-perception, atmosphere, and social self-perception were obtained using the Dundee Ready Educational Environment Measurement (DREEM) questionnaire. A total of 113 respondents with a mean age of 19.37±1.9 participated in this research. The Cronbach’s reliability coefficient for the questionnaire was 0.848. DREEM scores of all the respondents put together were 115.17/200 (57.6%) indicating a “more positive than negative” was obtained. Similarly, the total DREEM scores for the classes and both genders were positive. Subscale scores also showed positive scores implying a positive perception of the learning environment. The positive learning environment of the Medical School at Nile University of Nigeria is comparable to older medical schools in Nigeria and most parts of the world. This may indicate the suitability of the environment for learning and optimal performance among students enrolled in medical school.

Keywords: Educational Environment; Learning Atmosphere; Learning Environment; DREEM; Medical Education

Key words: Educational Environment; Learning Atmosphere; Learning Environment; DREEM; Medical Education