Evaluation of Medical College Learning Environment: A students' Perception of University College of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Lahore

Background: The educational setting in medical schools influences education quality and student satisfaction. Knowing students' views on learning environment is crucial as more enroll in private medical colleges. This study assesses the learning environment of University College of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Lahore, through students' perspectives using the John Hopkins Learning Environment Scale. The aim is to identify areas for enhancement and improve the educational experience.Objective: The objective of current study was to assess the perception of medical and dental undergraduate students about their learning environment at Medical and Dental College of University of Lahore.Materials and Methods: This analytical Cross-sectional study was conducted in University College of Medicine & Dentistry, University of Lahore. The Study was conducted from 12 April 2022 to 22 October 2022. Sample of the study was 214 medical and dental students. Data was collected using Johns Hopkins Learning Environment Scale (JHLES). Independent sample t test was used to explore the difference of MBBS and BDS students' perception about learning environment.Results: A significant difference was found between the perception of medical and dental students in terms learning environment (t=2.45, P=.015). Perception of medical students about the learning environment of was more positive (92.57±10.03) as compared to dental students (89.22±9.97).Conclusion: Medical students of University College of Medicine & Dentistry, The University of Lahore perceived learning environment more positive as compared to dental students. This is due to the better quality of physical space and facilities available for medical students compared to dental students.Keywords: Community of peers, Dental students, Johns Hopkins Learning Environment Scale (JHLES), Medical students, Physical space,