Military Medical Student Technology Readiness and Resource Utilization

Introduction This study investigates medical education technology use by medical students at the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences. It explores the resources students utilize, considering factors like effectiveness, cost, and peer influence, to optimize learning while ensuring responsible DoD fund stewardship. The research aims to inform student resource selection, institutional resource allocation, and faculty technology integration. Materials and Methods The technology readiness index survey was administered to medical students from the classes of 2023-2027. Results A total of 98 responses were received. The reported estimated cost of third-party resources varied amongst students, ranging from $0 to up to $6,000. The distribution of cost shows a general increase in cost every year further into medical school and there is a difference in resource use timing. Students displayed significantly more positive attitudes of optimism regarding technology at a mean of 4.36/5, followed by insecurity at 3.43/5, slightly above neutral, followed by attitudes of discomfort and innovativeness at slightly below neutral. Conclusion Our findings reveal a diverse landscape of resource utilization, with students drawing on both institution-provided and personally purchased tools to support their learning. Recommendations for institutions include considering student preferences on resource use at different points during the medical education journey.