Development and Maintenance of Cohort Data at Chonnam National University Medical School

Abstract

The aim of this study was to systematically collect data for evaluating short- and long-term outcomes using Kirkpatrick’s four-level evaluation model, Chonnam National Medical School has established plans for developing and managing a database of student and graduate cohorts. The Education Evaluation Committee, with assistance from the Medical Education Office, manages the development and maintenance of cohort data. Data collection began in the 2022 academic year with first- through fourth-year medical students and graduates of the year 2022. The collected data include sociodemographic characteristics, admission information, psychological test results, academic performance data, extracurricular activity data, scholarship records, national medical licensing exam results, and post-graduation career paths. The Education Evaluation Committee and the Medical Education Office analyze the annually updated student and graduate cohort data and report the results to the dean and relevant committees. These results are used for admissions processes, curriculum improvement, and the development of educational programs. Applicants interested in using the student and graduate cohort data to evaluate the curriculum or conduct academic research must undergo review by the Educational Evaluation Committee before being granted access to the data. It is expected that the collected data from student and graduate cohorts will provide a sound and scientific basis for evaluating short- and long-term achievements based on student, school, and other characteristics, thereby supporting medical education policies, innovation, and implementation.