Table 4 Examples of student comments on program development

Setting the program assignment

As I consistently recorded my research notes, I could see where I lacked an understanding of the research flow. I was able to quickly make up for the shortcomings of the research. (Female, M2, CS)

Through the presentations in reporting sessions, I had the opportunity to see how and what progress was being made in other students’ research. It felt like a time trial, and I was under pressure to do my research as quickly as possible. I think it was a tool used for producing the final results. (Female, M2, CS)

Developing mutual support between the formal curriculum and MSTP

I was able to find references more easily this year. It was hard last year because I had never presented a journal article. But this year, I found more references and did better research than I did last year. (Female, M3, CS)

Because the clerkship time was fixed, the most difficult part was arranging the schedule with the professor. Furthermore, the hospital where the professor works and the hospital where I practice are not the same. As a result, there was little communication. (Male, M3, CS)

Securing time to spare

In terms of time, I did not have any conflicts while I participated in the program. This is because the school lectures were recorded and shared online due to the COVID-19 pandemic. I could replay any portions that I did not initially understand. Consequently, my overall study time was shorter, and I could spend more time participating in research activities. (Male, M2, CS)