Evaluating the utilization of electronic resources in postgraduate medical education: Awareness, usage and user satisfaction at the Postgraduate Institute of Medicine, University of Colombo, Sri Lanka

Abstract

This study evaluates the awareness, usage patterns, and user satisfaction regarding electronic resources (e-resources) among postgraduate (PG) trainees and PG trainers (teachers) at the Postgraduate Institute of Medicine (PGIM), University of Colombo, with the aim of enhancing their utilization in postgraduate medical education. The study focused on MD trainees and PG trainers who attended the PGIM library orientation programme. A structured questionnaire was administered to 56 participants, and data were analysed using descriptive statistical methods. Of the 56 respondents, 78.6% (n = 44) were MD trainees, while 21.4% (n = 12) were PG trainers. Most participants accessed e-resources from home (48.4%, n = 27), followed by hospital settings (28.6%, n = 16) and the PGIM library (23.0%, n = 13). Laptops were the primary device used (62.5%), while tablets (21.4%) and smartphones (16.1%) were also utilized for research and reference purposes. Key motivations for e-resource usage included renewing clinical knowledge (82.1%), supporting patient care (76.8%), diagnostic and treatment planning (71.4%), and educational research (64.3%). While 71.4% of participants expressed high satisfaction with the quality, accessibility, and relevance of PGIM's e-resources, 14.3% highlighted the need for regular orientation or refresher sessions to improve database navigation skills. The findings underscore the critical role of e-resources in postgraduate medical education while identifying gaps in training and access. The study recommends enhanced training programmes for PG trainees and trainers, along with infrastructural improvements to optimize the utilization of e-resources. Addressing these gaps can strengthen digital learning, evidence-based practice, and clinical competency in Sri Lankan medical education.