The Use of Podcasts as a Learning Activity During a Year 5 Competency-Based Blended Learning Curriculum at Saarland University

Abstract

(1) Podcasts are increasingly used in undergraduate medical education. They differ from traditional learning activities and may influence exam performance. Podcasts also offer insights into learning behaviour and perceptions of family medicine (FM). Despite their frequent use in medical education, it remains unclear how they can best be integrated into competency-based curricula and motivate students to study for FM. This study examines the impact of a medical podcast on learning behaviour and academic performance at Saar land University (UdS). (2) This exploratory mixed-methods study analyzed podcast-related learning behaviour and exam relevance among year-five medical students at UdS in the winter semester 2024/25. Demographic, quantitative, and qualitative data were collected via an online questionnaire (Google Forms®) in January 2025. Data were descriptively and analytically evaluated and linked to exam results. Qualitative data were analyzed using Kuckartz’s content analysis. (3) Of 123 eligible students, 92 participated. Most listened to episodes in full. Podcasts were seen as low-threshold means to access study content, but they were often not perceived as a separate learning activity. Listening to podcasts did not directly influence exam performance but helped connecting theory with clinical relevance and increased motivation for FM. (4) Podcasts are popular for exploring clinical practice and complex topics. Their didactic value lies in contextual learning and career orientation, rather than improving exam performance.