Surreal illustration of a medical classroom with glowing threads connecting students and teachers, symbolizing a positive learning environment.

Decoding the Classroom: What Makes a Positive Learning Environment for Future Doctors?

Soraya Malik in Mind & Education August 2025 • 4 min read.

"New research reveals the key factors, from student attitudes to teacher empathy, that shape the educational atmosphere in pre-clinical medical training."

The demand for highly skilled and well-rounded medical professionals is driving significant changes in medical education. Medical schools are under pressure to enhance the quality of their training programs to meet the evolving needs of the healthcare landscape.

Efforts to improve medical education include redesigning graduation profiles and training programs, boosting faculty development, and focusing on student well-being and the overall learning environment. Among these, the educational environment is a critical factor for effective learning, positively influencing student achievement and satisfaction.

But what exactly constitutes a positive educational environment in the demanding world of medical training? A recent study delved into this question, exploring the factors that medical teachers believe are most influential in shaping the learning atmosphere for pre-clinical students. The findings offer valuable insights for educators looking to cultivate a more supportive and effective learning space.

The Teacher-Student Dynamic: Key Ingredients for a Thriving Classroom

Surreal illustration of a medical classroom with glowing threads connecting students and teachers, symbolizing a positive learning environment.

The study, conducted with medical teachers in Concepcion, Chile, identified several key categories influencing the educational environment. These fell into two main groups: factors related to students and factors related to teachers. Both personal and academic elements within these groups were found to play a significant role.

For students, personal factors like a pro-social attitude were crucial. Teachers emphasized the importance of respect, empathy, and ethical conduct among students. A positive and cheerful attitude was also seen as beneficial, creating a more relaxed and enjoyable learning atmosphere. On the flip side, disruptive behaviors, such as talking during class or using inappropriate language, had a detrimental effect.

Pro-Social Attitudes: Respect towards peers and teachers, empathy, and ethical conduct.
Positive Demeanor: Cheerfulness, humor, and a relaxed approach to learning.
Effective Communication: Good listening skills, the ability to articulate ideas respectfully, and thoughtful participation in discussions.
Engagement & Responsibility: Being prepared for class, actively participating, and demonstrating a commitment to learning.
Minimizing Disruptions: Avoiding distractions, refraining from side conversations, and showing respect for the learning environment.

On the academic front, student participation was highly valued. Teachers appreciated students who were willing to ask questions, contribute to discussions, and actively engage with the material. Responsibility was another key factor, with teachers highlighting the importance of students coming prepared for class, managing their time effectively, and consistently meeting deadlines. Motivation, the driving force behind these behaviors, was seen as essential for creating a positive learning environment.

Building a Better Future for Medical Education

These findings underscore the importance of fostering both personal and academic qualities in medical students. Creating a supportive learning environment requires a multifaceted approach that addresses student attitudes, communication skills, and engagement, as well as teacher empathy, pedagogical skills, and responsible conduct.

Medical schools should prioritize the development of these qualities through targeted interventions and faculty training. By promoting a culture of respect, collaboration, and active learning, institutions can empower students to thrive academically and personally, ultimately preparing them to become compassionate and effective healthcare professionals.

While questionnaires like the DREEM offer valuable insights into the overall educational environment, a deeper understanding of specific factors is essential for creating meaningful change. This study provides a starting point for further research and practical interventions aimed at improving the learning experience for future generations of medical professionals.

About this Article -

This article was crafted using a human-AI hybrid and collaborative approach. AI assisted our team with initial drafting, research insights, identifying key questions, and image generation. Our human editors guided topic selection, defined the angle, structured the content, ensured factual accuracy and relevance, refined the tone, and conducted thorough editing to deliver helpful, high-quality information.See our About page for more information.

This article is based on research published under:

DOI-LINK: 10.4067/s0034-98872016001000015, Alternate LINK

Title: Factores Que Afectan Al Ambiente Educativo En La Formación Preclínica De Medicina Según Sus Docentes

Subject: General Medicine

Journal: Revista médica de Chile

Publisher: SciELO Agencia Nacional de Investigacion y Desarrollo (ANID)

Authors: Guisela Olave P, Cristhian Pérez V, Eduardo Fasce H, Liliana Ortiz M, Nancy Bastías V, Carolina Márquez U, Paula Parra P, Pilar Ibáñez G

Published: 2016-10-01

Everything You Need To Know

What are the key elements that make up a positive educational environment in pre-clinical medical training?

A positive educational environment in pre-clinical medical training is significantly influenced by both student and teacher-related factors. For students, personal factors such as a pro-social attitude, which includes respect, empathy, and ethical conduct, play a vital role. Academic elements like active participation and responsibility are also crucial. On the teacher's side, empathy, effective pedagogical skills, and responsible conduct contribute to creating a supportive and effective learning space.

According to medical teachers, what personal qualities in students are most important for creating a thriving classroom environment?

Medical teachers emphasized the importance of pro-social attitudes among students, specifically respect towards peers and teachers, empathy, and ethical conduct. They also valued a positive demeanor, including cheerfulness, humor, and a relaxed approach to learning. These personal qualities contribute to a more relaxed and enjoyable learning atmosphere, fostering a positive educational environment.

What specific actions can medical students take to help foster a more positive learning environment?

Students can contribute by demonstrating pro-social attitudes like respect and empathy, actively participating in discussions, and being responsible by coming prepared for class and meeting deadlines. Effective communication, including good listening skills and the ability to articulate ideas respectfully, also plays a crucial role. Minimizing disruptions, such as avoiding side conversations and showing respect for the learning environment, is equally important.

How were the factors influencing the educational environment categorized in the study involving medical teachers?

The study conducted with medical teachers in Concepcion, Chile, categorized factors influencing the educational environment into those related to students and those related to teachers. Student-related factors included personal attributes like pro-social attitudes and academic aspects such as active participation. Teacher-related factors encompassed empathy, pedagogical skills, and responsible conduct. The interplay of these elements determines the quality of the learning atmosphere.

What are the broader implications of fostering a positive learning environment in pre-clinical medical education for the future of healthcare?

Fostering a positive learning environment in pre-clinical medical education has significant implications for student achievement and satisfaction. When students exhibit pro-social attitudes, engage actively, and take responsibility for their learning, the educational environment becomes more effective. Simultaneously, when teachers demonstrate empathy, employ effective teaching methods, and act responsibly, they create a supportive and enriching learning space. This ultimately leads to better-prepared and more satisfied future doctors, addressing the evolving needs of the healthcare landscape and improving the quality of medical education.