The Role of Student Activities and Leadership in Non-Formal Educational Initiatives: ‘Medical Sunday School’ as a Model

Authors

  • Tamar Valishvili Akaki Tsereteli State University, Kutaisi, Georgia Author
  • Sophio Silagadze Akaki Tsereteli State University, Kutaisi, Georgia Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.52340/atsu.2026.1.27.17

Keywords:

Peer-Assisted Learning, Professional Identity, Informal Education, Student Leadership, Medical Awareness, Third mission, Medical education, Student engagement

Abstract

The “Medical Sunday School” project at Akaki Tsereteli State University illustrates the university’s social mission through informal education. Aimed at raising medical awareness among secondary school students, it engaged medical faculty students as peer educators, creating interactive, age-appropriate learning while enhancing their communication, leadership, and teaching skills. Active methods such as role-play, simulation, case-based, and project-based learning promoted critical thinking, empathy, and practical skills. Evaluation showed tutors gained confidence, career motivation, and reflective practice, while pupils received accessible health education. The project highlights student-led civic education and future interdisciplinary expansion, including STEM integration.

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References

Brookfield, S.D. & Preskill, S. 2005. Discussion as a Way of Teaching. Jossey-Bass.

Issenberg, S.B. et al. 2005. “Features and uses of high-fidelity medical simulations that lead to effective learning.” Medical Teacher, 27(1), 2005:10–28.

Nestel, D., & Tierney, T. 2007. “Role-play for medical students learning about communication: guidelines for maximising benefits.” BMC Medical Education, 7, 3.

Thistlethwaite, J.E. et al. 2012. “The effectiveness of case-based learning in health professional education.” Medical Teacher, 34(6), e421–e444.

Thomas, J.W. 2000. A Review of Research on Project-Based Learning.

Ten Cate, O. & Durning, S. 2007. “Peer teaching in medical education:twelve reasons to move from theory to practice.” Medical Teacher, 29(6), 591–599.

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Published

2026-07-23

Issue

Section

Social Sciences

How to Cite

Valishvili, T., & Silagadze, S. (2026). The Role of Student Activities and Leadership in Non-Formal Educational Initiatives: ‘Medical Sunday School’ as a Model. Bulletin of Akaki Tsereteli State University, 1(27), 274-289. https://doi.org/10.52340/atsu.2026.1.27.17

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