Evaluating the Educational Value of Internal Medicine Ward Rounds: Perspectives of Medical Students and Postgraduate Residents

Abstract Background Ward rounds remain a central component of clinical education in internal medicine, providing learners with opportunities to observe clinical reasoning, participate in patient care, and develop a professional identity. Despite their importance, the educational value of ward rounds is inconsistently realised, particularly in busy teaching environments where service demands may compete with learning. Methods This qualitative study explored how final-year medical students and internal medicine residents (PGY1–4) experience ward rounds as learning activities. Eleven focus group discussions were conducted with students and residents at a large tertiary teaching hospital in the Gulf region. Discussions were audio-recorded, transcribed, anonymised, and thematically analysed using Braun and Clarke’s framework. Results Four interrelated themes were identified. Ward rounds functioned as powerful learning spaces, allowing learners to integrate theory with practice and progress from observation to clinical participation. Consultant behaviour emerged as the most influential factor shaping the learning environment, with interactive teaching and role modelling enhancing engagement, while task-focused approaches constrained it. Learning was further enriched through peer interaction across training levels and collaboration with allied health professionals. However, service pressures, post-call fatigue, fragmented patient locations, and time-consuming family discussions frequently limited educational continuity. Conclusions Ward rounds remain a vital but underutilised educational resource. Their effectiveness depends less on structure alone and more on how clinical teachers intentionally engage learners during routine care. Supporting faculty development, fostering inclusive participation across learner levels, and recognising common barriers may help clinical educators maximise learning opportunities on ward rounds.