Abstract

The training environment is a determinant of learning outcomes. Paediatric residents spend most of their training programme activities in hospitals and related health centres. Measurement of the educational environment for residents is important to detect strengths and weaknesses and to ensure quality training.The overall aim is to determine the perception of postgraduate paediatric residents of a hospital educational environment. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted by using the modified Postgraduate Hospital Educational Environment Measure (PHEEM) to evaluate the training environment of paediatric residents in Sudan who spent 4 years of training after the curriculum was updated in 2014. PHEEM questionnaire was used to collect data from 150 final-year paediatric residents. Additional data about the programme were collected using checklists. Data were analysed using Statistical Package for the Social Science version 23. Of 101 residents who completed the forms, 19 (18.8%) were male and 82 (81.2%) were female. The total Cronbach’s alpha score was 0.894. The total scale score was 74/160, which indicated an overall suboptimal response. The overall score was 74.66, autonomy score was 25.75, teachers score was 29.17 and social support score was 19.73. The overall mean ranged between 0.9604 and 2.9109. There were no significant differences between male and female responses. The examination results showed high scores despite the suboptimal educational environment. Perception of the training environment by residents showed suboptimal responses. All subscales showed problems that needed attention and urgent interventions. The social subscale score was the lowest and needed special attention with regard to the large number of females. It is vital to evaluate the whole training in order.

Key words: Paediatrics; Residents; Postgraduate hospital educational environment measure; Sudan.