Training in communication and teamwork skills in health sciences: A brief report of Spain

Abstract

BACKGROUND: University degrees offer theoretical content specific to each discipline, in addition to transversal skills that are fundamental for effective learning management and future work performance. The aim of this study is to analyze the perceptions of students of different university degrees in health sciences about the training received. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A cross‑sectional, observational, descriptive study was conducted to conduct a survey in the different university programs. A questionnaire was specifically designed to ascertain the students perception of their practical training, communication skills, and teamwork. The sample recruitment strategy was implemented with a focus on the autonomous community of Castilla y León in Spain. The sampling method employed was convenience sampling, with nonprobabilistic recruitment techniques utilized. Descriptive statistics were utilized to present the different variables. The reliability of the Likert‑type items was assessed using Cronbach’s alpha, and the variables were analyzed using the Kruskal–‑Wallis test to detect differences between degree and course groups. RESULTS: A sample of 134 students was obtained, of which 78.4% were women. The assessment of the content obtained yielded average scores ranging from 2.92 to 3.9, indicating a satisfactory level of satisfaction. The Kruskal–Wallis test yielded significant results for the question regarding the perception of communication skills training with the patient as sufficient (P = 0.019). The Likert‑type items exhibited adequate internal consistency, with a Cronbach’s alpha of 0.785. CONCLUSIONS: The content was present, but due to the characteristics of the sample, significant differences between the degrees could not be detected.