Fostering medical students’ lifelong learning skills with a dashboard, coaching and learning planning

Factor 1: SMART^b goals

(α = 0.88)

I regularly set SMART goals for myself to improve my learning

2.82

0.99

3.25 (0.91)

SMART goals are a useful tool

3.36

1.02

I find it useful to create SMART goals related to my academic performance

3.01

1.15

I find it useful to create SMART goals related to my career planning

3.49

1.15

I find it useful to create SMART goals related to my well-being

3.75

1.01

I keep track of the progress of my SMART goals

2.97

1.02

Factor 2: Dashboard usage

(α = 0.82)

I usually choose which goal to create based on data on my performance from the dashboard

2.45

1.14

3.36 (0.64)

I am able to review my individual performance readily using the dashboard

3.67

0.94

It is helpful to review my performance compared with other students using the dashboard

3.71

0.97

The breadth of data in the dashboard is sufficient for me to assess my academic performance

3.32

0.94

The exam grade reports in the dashboard help in assessing my performance

3.55

0.90

I find it easy to track my exam scores over time to monitor improvement in my performance

3.25

0.96

Reviewing my dashboard motivates me to improve my performance

3.54

0.87

The information about my performance in the dashboard is accurate

3.70

0.78

The information about my performance in the dashboard reflects my progression as a medical student

3.40

0.82

Factor 3: Learning strategy

(α = 0.81)

I use effective learning tools and strategies

3.91

0.68

3.72 (0.64)

When I study, I test myself to check my understanding of what I’ve studied

3.94

0.86

I know how to identify the best learning resources to make progress in an area that I need to improve in academically

3.46

0.91

I have the skills required to be a lifelong learner

4.08

0.75

I am adequately supported to implement my SMART learning goals

3.68

0.73

I currently know how to interpret feedback and data/scores to improve my academic performance

3.48

0.81

Factor 4: Coaching for improvement (α = 0.71)

My coach helps me create or adjust my SMART goals

3.83

0.88

3.67 (0.79)

Working with my coach helps me understand how to use performance data and feedback to create SMART learning goals

3.52

1.02

My coach helps me to assess and reflect on the progress I have made on my goals

3.80

0.84

Factor 5: Reflection

(α = 0.70)

When I receive feedback, I often reflect and set new goals

3.79

0.81

3.68 (0.64)

I direct my learning based on my individual learning needs

4.19

0.72

I mainly use sources other than the dashboard to review how I am doing in medical school

2.94

0.97

If I’m not on track with my goals, I try to make adjustments and find resources to achieve those goals on my own

3.92

0.80

When I receive feedback, I use that information to change my behaviour

4.18

0.59