Mental health and perceived self-efficacy of medical students: research findings and implications for eLearning support

Abstract

In this chapter we look at one aspect of student quality of life, stress. We then consider the role that eLearning might play in alleviating student stress. The potential of eLearning is conceptualized in terms of improving curriculum content delivery, improving communication and in terms of supporting students in caring for themselves. We have gathered data on the mental health and perceived self-efficacy (how well students manage stress) for University of Hong Kong (HKU) Year 4 medical students as measured by the General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) and the General Self-Efficacy Scale, respectively. Mental health is linked to the psychological quality of life domain of the WHOQOL 1, and self-efficacy is a key component of motivation 2,3. Thus, this research sits within the broader framework of students’ quality of life and motivation to learn. In the first instance we present our research including the research method and the key findings. We will then discuss the potential of eLearning to help students to manage stress. Our chapter concludes with some recommendations for integrating eLearning elements into the medical curriculum in order to help students to manage stress.