The Role of the Medical Education Learning Specialist in Preparing Medical Students for the USMLE Step 1
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Authors
Anderson, Ashley L
Issue Date
2025
Type
Dissertation
Language
en_US
Keywords
Academic Coaching , Medical Education , Medical Education Learning Specialist , Step 1 Preparation , Student Support Services , USMLE Step 1
Alternative Title
Abstract
The number of medical professionals in the United States is predicted to decrease, significantly impacting the public’s access to quality care. One possible solution is to increase the number of medical school graduates. Medical students are required to pass two parts of the United States Medical Licensing Examination (USMLE) to graduate from medical school. Since 2022, the pass rates for the USMLE Step 1 have been declining. This decline in pass rates has contributed to a decrease in medical school graduates. Medical education learning specialists (MELS) are academic support professionals who assist students throughout medical school and the USMLE; however, there is very little research on how medical schools aid students in preparing for the USMLE Step 1, and even less research on the role of MELS in that preparation. This study used a qualitative research design to conduct semistructured interviews with seven MELS at different U.S.-based medical schools. Participants discussed their roles and described the learning strategies they recommend to students preparing for the USMLE Step 1. They identified the use of data in assessing student preparedness and predicting their trajectory for completing the USMLE Step 1 in the allotted time, discussed the modes of communicating information to students, and described the specific study management, learning, test-taking, and well-being strategies they recommend. The results of this study contribute to the knowledge base of MELS and their role in preparing students for the USMLE Step 1. These findings may inform institutional support strategies and future research on the role of MELS and best practices in preparing students for the USMLE Step 1.