Competencies Required to Make Use of Information Science and Technology among Japanese Medical Students: a Cross-Sectional Study

Competency in the use of information science and technology (IST) is essential for medical students. This study identified learning objectives and competencies that correspond with low self-assessment related to use of IST and factors that improve such self-assessment among medical students. A questionnaire was administered to sixth-year medical students across 82 medical schools in Japan between November 2022 and February 2023. Three learning objectives were identified as difficult for the students to achieve: (1) provide an overview of the regulations, laws, and guidelines related to IST in medicine; (2) discuss ethical issues, such as social disparities caused by the digital divide that may arise in the use of IST in medicine; and (3) understand IST related to medical care. Further, problem-based learning, engaging with IST beyond class, and learning approach impacted the students’ acquisition of competencies related to IST. Furthermore, it was recognized that the competencies required by medical students may change over the course of an updated medical school curriculum. It is important for medical students to recognize the significance of learning, establishing active learning methods, and gaining experience in practically applying these competencies.