Investigating the Current Status of the Clinical Internship Curriculum in Paramedical Student Training Courses: A Grounded Theory Approach

Abstract

Background: The primary objective of this study was to examine the current status of the clinical internship curriculum in the educational programs of paramedical students. Objectives: This qualitative study was conducted using the grounded theory method, based on Strauss and Corbin’s systematic approach. Methods: The study population comprised all key stakeholders involved in the internship curriculum for paramedical students at teaching hospitals affiliated with the Ministry of Health and Medical Education, including paramedical students who had completed at least 6 academic semesters and internship instructors. In total, 16 students and 11 internship instructors were selected purposively. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analyzed in 3 stages: open coding, axial coding, and selective coding. Results: The findings were organized according to the conceptual model of Strauss and Corbin (2008). Data validity and reliability were assessed using two methods: participant review and expert review by individuals who had not participated in the study. Conclusions: The results indicated that improving the internship curriculum for paramedical students requires revising curriculum design and development approaches based on participatory methods, appropriately implementing the designed program, and providing organizational support for the internship program.