Assessment of the Educational Environment Using the Dundee Ready Education Environment Measure (DREEM) Among Physical Therapy Students at Taif University.
Abstract
Background: The educational environment significantly influences students' learning experiences, academic performance, and satisfaction. The Dundee Ready Education Environment Measure (DREEM) is widely used to assess students' perceptions of their educational climate. Objectives: To evaluate the learning environment of Physical Therapy students at Taif University using the DREEM questionnaire and to examine how gender, academic level, and age predict students' perceptions. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among undergraduate Physical Therapy students using the validated Arabic version of the DREEM questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, bivariate analyses (t-test, ANOVA), and multiple linear regression were employed to analyze the data. Results were reported with 95% confidence intervals, and significance was set at p < 0.05. Results: A total of 234 students completed the survey. The mean overall DREEM score was 125.1 out of 200, indicating a "more positive than negative" perception. Male students had significantly higher DREEM scores than female students (2.65 vs. 2.51; p = 0.014). While differences across academic years were not statistically significant (p = 0.138), second-year students reported the highest scores. Multiple linear regression showed that female gender (β = -0.14, p = 0.012) and being in the fourth year (β = -0.25, p = 0.042) were associated with lower overall DREEM scores. Conclusion: The educational environment for Physical Therapy students at Taif University is generally perceived as positive. However, differences based on gender and academic year highlight the need for targeted interventions—particularly for female and fourth-year students. Enhancing peer support, stress management, and inclusive teaching strategies may improve the overall student experience.
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