Examining the level of perceived achievement of complex thinking competency in health sciences students and its relevance to the graduate profile

Abstract

This article presents the findings of a study conducted on health sciences students in their last semester of training regarding their perceived achievement of the complex thinking competency and its sub-competencies. The objective was to gain insight into how these students perceive the cognitive competencies and skills acquired during their university career as relevant to meet the challenges of their future professions. This study contrasts the perception of achievement of complex thinking competence by gender of the participants, as well as compared to students from other disciplines, with the intention of identifying significant differences. This competency's selection lies in its relevance to decision-making when facing problems, which is fundamental for any contemporary professional. This study relied on a representative convenience sample of graduating candidates from a university in western Mexico. Methodologically, the researchers used descriptive analyses and a validated instrument. The results indicated that the sample students' perceived achievement was very high and balanced, i.e., no significant differences existed by gender or the perception of their sub-competencies. This study revealed a significant difference compared to other disciplinary areas; the medical and health sciences graduate candidates' perceived achievement of competency development was higher.