مخطط الموضوع

  • Burnout among Syrian postgraduate residents in medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy: a cross-sectional study

    Submitted by: Radwan A. Haffaf , Sulaf Hamid & Mayssoon Dashash

    Published by: Korean Journal of Medical Education

    Date: 21 July ,2025.

    Abstract

    Purpose:

    The aim of this study was to compare the prevalence of burnout and determine the predictive factors among the residents in the three major healthcare specialties in Syria (medicine, dentistry, and pharmacy).

    Methods:

    A web-based cross-sectional survey was used to investigate the experienced burnout among residents. The Maslach Burnout Inventory was used as a self-reported scale. Seven burnout-related factors were investigated and included in the survey.

    Results:

    The overall reported prevalence of burnout was 73% (149/204 respondents) in the total sample. Residents in medicine reported the highest values, followed by the residents in dentistry. The residents in pharmacy reported the lowest burnout prevalence. The prevalence was statistically different in selected domains of burnout according to the type of specialty, satisfaction with monthly income, marital status, gender, existence of night shifts, and was inversely correlated with age (p<0.05).

    Conclusion:

    Burnout rates among Syrian healthcare residents are high and concerning. Residents in medicine reported the highest percentage. Predictive factors should be considered by the directors of every medical program and the residency administrators.

  • Technology Integration in Syrian Medical Education From the Perspective of Students and Faculty: A Cross-Sectional Evaluation

    Submitted by: Subhiya Hassoun, Mayssoon Dashash &  Adnan Baddour

    Published by: JMIR Formative Research

    Date: 8 August 2025

    Background:

    Technology-enhanced learning (TEL) has become increasingly vital in global medical education, offering significant advantages in knowledge acquisition, communication, motivation, and student engagement. In Syria, a country facing prolonged crises, there is an urgent need to evaluate the integration of technology within medical education to address institutional limitations and support student learning.

    Objective:

    The aim of this study is to evaluate the awareness, perceived challenges, and needs regarding the integration of technology in medical education from the perspectives of students and faculty at Syrian medical colleges.

    Methods:

    A cross-sectional survey was conducted during the 2023‐2024 academic year across Syrian universities. Stratified random sampling was used to recruit 500 medical students and 200 faculty members. Two tailored, self-administered questionnaires were used, covering motivation, perceived benefits, challenges, and suggestions for technology integration. Validity was assessed through expert review and pilot testing (n=30), and internal consistency was confirmed (Cronbach α=0.6‐0.7). Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t tests, ANOVA, and Kruskal-Wallis tests.

    Results:

    Among medical students, 94% (470\500) agreed that integrating technology into medical education is essential, with similar agreement from 93.5% (187\200) of faculty. No significant differences were found in student responses based on specialization (P=.32) or university type (P=.11). Likewise, faculty perspectives did not significantly differ by academic qualification or years of experience (P>.05). There were several perceived benefits; for instance, 93.2% (n=466) of students reported that technology kept them up to date with new developments, 88% stated it enhanced research skills, and 86.8% found TEL more enjoyable than traditional learning methods. Most respondents (95% n=475) said TEL created a flexible, interactive environment. Among faculty, 77% (n=154) agreed TEL improves clinical skill development. Respondents noted there were some challenges; specifically, 57% (n=285) of students cited poor internet service, 33% (n=165) noted the financial burden, and 82.2% (n=411) called for behavioral guidelines. Among faculty, 85.5% (n=171) cited lack of institutional support and 90% (n=180) emphasized the need for training. Both groups supported the development of communication platforms, curriculum revisions, and faculty development programs.

    Conclusions:

    There is a strong consensus among Syrian medical students and faculty on the value and necessity of integrating technology in medical education. Despite infrastructure and administrative challenges, both groups recognize TEL as a powerful tool for improving clinical competencies, student motivation, and academic engagement. Institutional commitment, curricular reform, and tailored training are essential to achieving sustainable, effective technology integration.

  • Exploring the Informal Learning Resources Used by Dental Students: A Mixed Method

    Submitted by: Maha Akkari , Mayssoon Dashash & Issam Jamous

    Published by: Journal of Medical Education and Curricular Development

    Date: 6 August 2025

    Abstract

    Background

    Informal learning resources can be considered supportive to formal learning resources in shaping future professional identity. This study aimed to assess dental students’ preferences towards using informal learning resources, to explore challenges impacting students’ choices and to find out the motivations for using these resources.

    Methods

    A mixed methods study design was conducted. A total of 1000 dental students completed a quantitative questionnaire data from different universities in Syria, and qualitative semi-structured interviews (15: postgraduate student and 30: undergraduate students) were fulfilled. Data were separately collected and analyzed.

    Results

    Peer learning scored a high level of engagement (undergraduates: 76.2%, postgraduates: 79.6%) as did the use of social media platforms (undergraduates: 79.4%, postgraduates: 80.6%). The challenges associated with utilizing open educational resources (undergraduates: 71.6%, postgraduates: 73.2%), social media platforms (undergraduates: 73.8%, postgraduates: 74.4%), and attending conferences and workshops (undergraduates: 75.4%, postgraduates: 76.2%) were rated at a high level. The undergraduate interview participants reported that lack of time was the most important limitation for using informal learning resources whereas online payment problem for open educational resources was basic challenge for postgraduate participants.

    Conclusions

    Reliance on informal learning resources is an efficient and vital tool for dental students. Faculty members can play an impact role in guiding students how effectively use of informal learning resources to enhance their educational experience.

  • Establishing core competencies for neonatology fellowship training in Syria: a modified Delphi study approach

    Submitted by: Imad Zoukar ,Sham Zoukar , Mervat Muad & Mayssoon Dashash

    Published by: BMC Medical Education

    Date: 28 July 2025

    Abstract

    Introduction

    Competency-based medical education is gaining momentum globally, emphasizing demonstrable skills and knowledge. However, the Syrian neonatology fellowship program remains largely grounded in a traditional, time-based model and faces significant challenges due to the ongoing conflict in Syria. This study aims to identify and prioritize core competencies for Syrian neonatology fellowship curricula to establish a foundation for a standardized national curriculum.

    Methods

    A mixed-methods approach was utilized, incorporating a literature review, focus group discussions, and a modified Delphi technique involving three survey rounds. This process engaged a panel of 135 Syrian healthcare professionals with expertise in neonatal care. Participants evaluated a preliminary list of 120 competencies derived from a literature review and focus group discussions using a 5-point Likert scale. A consensus threshold of 75% agreement was applied to determine the final competency list.

    Results

    Expert consensus identified 135 competencies, categorized as 38 (28.1%) knowledge, 80 (59.3%) skills, and 17 (12.6%) attitudes. A weighted ranking system determined that 89 (65.9%) of these competencies are essential for successful neonatology fellowship training in Syria. Prioritized competencies emphasized foundational clinical skills, infection control, and teamwork, reflecting the resource limitations and collaborative needs of the Syrian healthcare system.

    Conclusion

    This study establishes a comprehensive set of core competencies for neonatology fellowship training in Syria. These findings provide a framework for developing contemporary, evidence-based curriculum aligned with international standards while adapting to local resource constraints. They represent a crucial step in standardizing neonatology fellowship training and advancing neonatal care in Syria.

  • The surgical clinical training measurement: developing and evaluating the quality of surgical clinical training among Syrian surgical residents

    Submitted by: Ahmad Ghazal & Mayssoon Dashash

    Published by: BMC Medical Education

    Date: 30 March 2025

    Abstract

    Background

    Evaluation tools for training programs vary, necessitating a standardized tool for assessing surgical clinical training quality to enhance program effectiveness, pinpoint improvement areas, and ensure resident readiness for independent practice. We present a new tool designed to provide a reliable and consistent framework for evaluating the effectiveness of surgical clinical training.

    Methods

    The Surgical Clinical Training Measurement (SCTM) was developed using the modified Delphi method to evaluate ten variables, including core competencies specific to surgical training. It employs a 5-point Likert scale, with scores ranging from 40 to 200. General surgery residents completed the SCTM twice to evaluate training levels. Results were categorized based on score ranges. Statistical analysis via SPSS included descriptive statistics, group comparisons, internal consistency assessments, correlations, and reliability tests to evaluate the SCTM scores, demographic characteristics, and language versions. ANOVA, Chi-Square, Cohen Kappa, and Spearman’s rho tests were employed for data analysis.

    Results

    74 general surgery residents at Aleppo University Hospital have participated in this study. The SCTM scores indicated a mean total score of 131.42, with most residents falling into the good satisfactory category. Analysis showed no significant differences in total scores across specialty years, but post-hoc tests revealed differences between specific years. The SCTM demonstrated strong reliability, with a Kappa value of 0.884 indicating high agreement between English and Arabic versions (p < 0.05). Test-retest reliability was also high (r = 0.964, p < 0.01). Internal consistency was excellent across various domains, reinforcing its validity in surgical education. The analysis of variables showed different levels of reliability and mean scores among the various factors. The Pre-Operative Clinical variable had the highest performance, while the Evidence-Based Quality Clinical Training variable indicated the most potential for improvement. The strong positive correlations between various domains of SCTM emphasize the interconnected nature of skill development, with proficiency in patient care closely linked to competency in other areas such as Medical Knowledge, Practice-based Learning and Improvement, and Evidence-Based Quality Clinical Training.

    Conclusion

    SCTM offers a standardized and cohesive method for evaluating the quality of surgical clinical training. It’s a valuable resource for program directors, educators, and residents to assess and enhance training programs, and identify specific areas for improvement. Additional research is required to validate the SCTM in different settings and explore its applicability in other fields.

  • Enhancing Academic Success: A mixed Study on the Influencing Factors among Pharmacy Students in Syrian Universities

    Submitted by: Mohab Qattan, Mayssoon Dashash, & Zeina S. Malek

    Published by: F1000Research

    Date: October 2024

    Abstract

    Background

    Academic achievement is the result of both effort and perseverance exerted by the students. This mixed-methods study aims to investigate the factors affecting the academic achievement of pharmacy students in Syrian universities.

    Methods

    A convergent parallel mixed-methods study was utilized. In the quantitative phase, a cross-sectional study was conducted on 1008 students (773 females and 235 males) from 23 Syrian universities. A questionnaire consisting of 48 items was designed to be completed by pharmacy students using a 5-point Likert scale.In the qualitative phase, twelve questions were developed to interview thirty pharmacy students from five Syrian universities to obtain in-depth insights into the factors influencing their academic achievement.
    Results
    A significant number of students lacked effective time management skills, identified as a weakness among students. The majority of students faced challenges in maintaining a consistent study routine, averaging a score of (2.0).Motivation towards learning emerged as a crucial factor in enhancing academic performance. Lecturers in the pharmacy faculty employed traditional teaching methods (2.01), and the pharmacy curriculum was perceived as lacking modernity (1.92).Quantitative findings demonstrated that pharmacy students experienced exam-related anxiety (2.05), identified as a weakness in the qualitative phase.Factors associated with the Syrian crisis, like unreliable electricity (1.87) and transportation issues (1.83), could have an impact on academic achievement. Economic conditions were identified as challenging to students’ academic performance, negatively affecting the learning process (1.98).
    Conclusion

    The results of the study demonstrate that personal factors, lecturers, educational environment, exams, and the Syrian crisis influence the academic achievement of pharmacy students in Syrian universities.

  • Evaluating the Effectiveness of an Online Course on Pediatric Malnutrition for Syrian Health Professionals: Qualitative Delphi Study

    Submitted by: Amal Sahyouni ;  Imad Zoukar & Mayssoon Dashash.

    Published by: JMIR MEDICAL EDUCATION

    Date: October 2024

    Background: There is a shortage of competent health professionals in managing malnutrition. Online education may be a practical and flexible approach to address this gap.

    Objective: This study aimed to identify essential competencies and assess the effectiveness of an online course on pediatric malnutrition in improving the knowledge of pediatricians and health professionals.

    Methods: A focus group (n=5) and Delphi technique (n=21 health professionals) were used to identify 68 essential competencies. An online course consisting of 4 educational modules in Microsoft PowerPoint (Microsoft Corp) slide form with visual aids (photos and videos) was designed and published on the Syrian Virtual University platform website using an asynchronous e-learning system. The course covered definition, classification, epidemiology, anthropometrics, treatment, and consequences. Participants (n=10) completed a pretest of 40 multiple-choice questions, accessed the course, completed a posttest after a specified period, and filled out a questionnaire to measure their attitude and assess their satisfaction.

    Results: A total of 68 essential competencies were identified, categorized into 3 domains: knowledge (24 competencies), skills (29 competencies), and attitudes (15 competencies). These competencies were further classified based on their focus area: etiology (10 competencies), assessment and diagnosis (21 competencies), and management (37 competencies). Further, 10 volunteers, consisting of 5 pediatricians and 5 health professionals, participated in this study over a 2-week period. A statistically significant increase in knowledge was observed among participants following completion of the online course (pretest mean 24.2, SD 6.1, and posttest mean 35.2, SD 3.3; P<.001). Pediatricians demonstrated higher pre- and posttest scores compared to other health care professionals (all P values were <.05). Prior malnutrition training within the past year positively impacted pretest scores (P=.03). Participants highly rated the course (mean satisfaction score >3.0 on a 5-point Likert scale), with 60% (6/10) favoring a blended learning approach.

    Conclusions: In total, 68 essential competencies are required for pediatricians to manage children who are malnourished. The online course effectively improved knowledge acquisition among health care professionals, with high participant satisfaction and approval of the e-learning environment.

     

  • The Impact of a Web-Based Restorative Dentistry Course on the Learning Outcomes of Dental Graduates:Pre-Experimental Study

    Submitted by: Rasha Al-Sbei , Jawdat Ataya, Issam Jamous, & Mayssoon Dashash

    Published by: JMIR Formative Research

    Date: March 2024

    Abstract:

    Background: Restorative dentistry plays a crucial role in dental practice, necessitating professionals to stay abreast with the latest advancements in the field. The advancement of technology has made web-based learning a widely used method of education delivery in dentistry, providing learners with extensive information and flexibility.

    Objective: This study aims to evaluate how effective an online educational course in restorative dentistry is for dental graduates in Syria.

    Methods: This study used a pre-experimental study design, with pretest and posttest assessments to measure changes in participants’ knowledge and skills. A total of 21 dental graduates completed the online course in restorative dentistry, which was hosted on Moodle, using the learning management system of the Syrian Virtual University. Participants were provided with a suggested learning sequence and had the flexibility to navigate the course on their own and at their own pace. The course was developed based on the principles of web course design and web-based course development using the ADDIE (Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation) general instructional design model. The pretest and posttest assessments consisted of 50 multiple-choice questions with a single correct answer, aligning with the course content. Furthermore, participants were asked to complete a course acceptance survey upon finishing the course.

    Results: The results showed a significant improvement in the participants’ knowledge of restorative dentistry, supported by a statistically significant P value of less than .05. The effect size of the difference between the pre and posttest indicated that the effect size, as indicated by ω2, demonstrated a significant 62.1% difference between the pre and posttest, indicating a high and statistically significant effect. Furthermore, the value derived from the Haridy obtained work ratio formula indicated that the educational program was effective, with an effectiveness amount of 3.36%. Additionally, 93% (n=19) of respondents expressed confidence in having gained the expected benefits from the educational course upon its completion.

    Conclusions: The findings indicated a notable enhancement in the participants’ understanding of restorative dentistry. The participants’ high satisfaction rate and positive feedback from the course acceptance survey further emphasize the favorable reception of the web-based learning approach. This study highlights the potential of web-based learning in dental education, opening the door for future research in this area. The findings of this study carry important implications for the design and implementation of web-based educational programs in dentistry, suggesting that such programs can serve as an effective tool for continuous professional development in the field.

  • Online training clinical pharmaceutical apprenticeship course for Reducing Medication Errors of Community pharmacists

    Submitted by: Alaa Abou Halawah, Mayssoon Dashash & Adnan Baddour

    Published by: Journal of Medical Education Development

    Date: November 2023

    Abstract:   
    Background & Objective: Medication errors are among the most serious problems affecting health systems worldwide. Pharmacists have an essential role in detecting and reducing these errors. So they should have the vital competencies.

    Materials & Methods:  An online course was created and uploaded to the Syrian Virtual University platform. After participants electronic registered, the course was presented in 3 modules, each lasting 7 days, making the total course was 21 days long. Subsequently,  a quasi-experimental study with a pretest-posttest design was conducted on 11 students. Data for both tests and questionnaire at the end of the course were collected using Google Forms™ links to evaluate students' responses and learning. The data were analyzed using SPSS software.

    Results:  Before the intervention, the mean and standard deviations of 11 participants' results were 55.27±15.61, compared to 81.36±14.63 after the intervention. There is a significant difference between the average grades before and after implementing the course (P=0.003). There were no statistically significant differences between the average grades of students after taking the online course and their academic year (P = 0.273) or gender (P = 0.059). The overall evaluation of the course was positive.

    Conclusion: The course has been efficient and positively received by students with its significant impact on developing students’ competencies that will allow them to work professionally after graduation and reduce medication errors.

  • Post-quake call for action: developing core competencies matrix for Syrian health workers in emergency time

    Submitted by: Hani Saeed, Sulaf Hamid, Imad Zoukar, Adel Khiami, Lama Al Hawat , Mohammed Khoja, Hossam Khawatmy , Hani Abdalnour and Mayssoon Dashash

    Published by: Conflict and Health

    DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s13031-023-00567-0

    Date: 

    Abstract

    Background: The recent earthquake in Syria has caused widespread devastation, leading to extensive damage and loss of life. Considering the diverse range of disasters and conflicts that have affected Syrian society, health workers must possess essential competencies to effectively manage various types of disasters, including earthquakes. Therefore, this study was undertaken to identify the specific competencies required by Syrian health workers to respond efficiently and effectively to earthquakes.

    Methods: An exploratory qualitative study was conducted at the Medical Education Program MEP of the Syrian Virtual University SVU. Nine members of the research team of the MEP, who represent various health specializations in medicine, dentistry, nursing, and pharmacy, accepted to take part in this study. Among these, three members have been actively involved in providing health care in hospitals and the field during the Syrian earthquake on 6 February 2023. The Delphi process was adopted to identify competencies. Health workers involved in earthquake response were categorized into nine groups including medical doctors, dentists, pharmacists, nurses, psychological support professionals, medical students, allied healthcare professionals, on-site disaster teams, and managers. The final list was accepted if it achieved more than 80% agreement among the participants in the first, second, and final rounds.

    Results: The study identified 74 competencies (12 knowledge items, 35 skills, and 27 attitudes) essential for health workers to respond effectively to earthquakes. They are categorized into five domains: "Preparing the team for the rescue process during and, after earthquakes, Implementation of the rescue process, Education and psychological support, Research, and development".

    Conclusion: A list of earthquake competencies was identified for health workers. It is hoped that this list will enhance a country’s resilience and will enable decision–makers to support health workers in acquiring these competencies within a very strained health system in Syria and other countries.

  • A suggested Scientific Research Environment Measure SREM in Medical Faculties

    Submitted by: Mohammad Ali Yousef - Mayssoon Dashash

    Published by: Heliyon

    DOI : https://doi.org/10.1016/j.heliyon.2022.e12701

    Date: December 28, 2022

    Abstract:

    Creating a supportive environment for scientific research is vital to improve the quality of research and its impact on development of society. This study outlines the development of a new scale that can measure the scientific research environment of postgraduate medical students. This tool aimed to allow medical institutions to measure their scientific research environment from the researchers' point of view. This may ensure an appropriate scientific research environment for researchers by identifying and overcoming obstacles.

  • The Effectiveness of Online Course about Pain Management and Local Anesthesia Methods for Undergraduate Dental Students

    Submitted by: Enass Shamsy -  Mayssoon Dashash

    Published by: Azerbaijan Medical Journal

    ISSN: 0005-2523 Volume 62, Issue 10

    Date: December, 2022

    Abstract:

    Local anesthesia (LA) is the most commonly method for pain control during dental procedures. Dentists should have the knowledge, skills and attitude about LA. Therefore, this study aimed at evaluating online course about dental pain management and local anesthesia methods used in dentistry. A total of fifty-four dental students who accepted to participate in this study were included. An online course composed of six-module was developed. Students' knowledge was assessed by comparing their learning before and after their participation using identical pre and post-test. According to Chi-Square statistics, significant difference at P < 0.05 was found between the correct answers of participants in pre-tests and post-tests which indicates that the level of learning was significantly higher after the participation of the online course. The use of online educational course is effective in developing dental students' knowledge of dental pain management and the local anesthesia methods used in dentistry.

  • The First Asynchronous Online Evidence-Based Medicine Course for Syrian Health Workforce: Effectiveness and Feasibility Pilot Study

    Submitted by: Yazan Kenjrawi - Mayssoon Dashash

    Date Submitted: Jan 25, 2022

    Date Accepted: Aug 22, 2022

    JMIR Form Res 2022;6(10):e36782
    DOI: 10.2196/36782

    ABSTRACT

    Background

    Evidence-based medicine (EBM) is of critical value, and it was implemented worldwide in order to improve the quality of the delivered health care. However, not all Syrian health professionals are knowledgeable about its importance, methodology, and implementation. Online learning about EBM might be effective in improving the learning of health professionals.

    Conclusions

    In order for EBM to be implemented in Syria, continuous medical education programs should be designed to target clinical practitioners. Asynchronous electronic medical education is an effective and a feasible mean for introducing the concept of EBM, improving its skills, and promoting positive attitudes of Syrian clinical practitioners towards it.

  • Measurement of empathy among health professionals during Syrian crisis using the Syrian empathy scale

    Mayssoon Dashash - Mounzer Boubou

    Abstract

    Health professionals should have certain degree of empathy to eliminate the pain and suffering of their patients. There is a need to design a scale, which can assess empathy among health professionals and is relevant to community and culture. Therefore, this study was undertaken to measure the empathy among Syrian health professionals and students of health professions using a newly designed Syrian Empathy Scale that is relevant to community during Syrian crisis.

  • أداة لقياس مدى جاهزية المستشفى لدى استقبال مرضى مصابين بداء فيروس كورونا (Covid-19)

    تسلط هذه القائمة الضوء عل المجالات المهمة التي يتعين عل المستشفيات مراجعتها استعداداً للوافدين المحتملين من مرضى الـ COVID-19.

  • الصحة العامة و إدارة المياه والصرف الصحي والنفايات في ظل انتشار فيروس كورونا ( COVID-19 )

    دليل مؤقت صادر عن منظمة الصحة العالمية بتاريخ 19 آذار 2020

  • الاعتبارات الأساسية للسلامة والصحة المهنية للعاملين الصحيين خلال فاشية مرض فيروس كورونا (COVID -19) الحقوق والأدوار والمسؤوليات

    المصدر: ميظمة الصحة العالمية-الدليل المرحلي- 19-آذار 2020

  • أداة تقييم المخاطر و تدبير حالات تعرض كوادر الفريق الطبي لفاشية كوفيد-19

    دليل إرشادي أولي 19 آذار 2020 صادر عن منظمة الصحة العالمية.

  • دلائل إرشادية لشركات ومعامل الأغذية ومحال الأطعمة من أجل سلامة الغذاء والوقاية من العدوى بفيروس كوفيد-19

  • مخطط الكفاءات الأساسية المطلوبة من الكادر الطبي لمقاربة مريض فيروس كوفيد 19

  • حماة الديار وقايتكم من فيروس كورونا تهمنا