Work

A mixed methods approach to explore free time management in first year healthcare students at Hanoi Medical University

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Background & Objective: Free time management is a crucial life skill, particularly for healthcare students. While global studies highlighted its benefits for personal growth, little attention has been given to this issue in Vietnam. Therefore, our study was conducted to describe the free time management and related factors among first-year healthcare students at Hanoi Medical University. Methods: The study employed a cross-sectional mixed-methods design. A convenient sample of 610 first-year students at Hanoi Medical University was surveyed from June to December 2024 using the Free Time Management Scale. Based on the quantitative results, 12 students with diverse management levels and characteristics were purposively selected for semi-structured in-depth interviews to contribute to the qualitative study. Results: The study identified three constructs of free time management: Free Time Technique (M = 3.09-3.29), Free Time Attitudes (M = 3.51-3.77), and Scheduling (M = 2.77-3.42). While the study pointed to part-time work (OR = 1.55), record tasks by electronic devices (OR = 1.86-2.46) and available free time. Interviews highlighted the influence of both personal factors and external pressures on students’ time management. Conclusion: The study found that students could manage free time, with challenges in scheduling. Both personal factors (self-discipline, procrastination) and external influences (academic workload, part-time jobs, task-managing methods and available free time) played important roles. Expanding research and providing training programs on free time management are essential for students’ personal growth and well-being.

Source: Discover Education

DOI: 10.1007/s44217-026-02348-2

Authors: Nhi Tho Tran, Hao Gia Nguyen, Chi Phuong Dang, Dat Minh Le, Hung Tuan Tran

Institution: Hanoi Medical University

Language: English

Topic: Perfectionism, Procrastination, Anxiety Studies

Subfield: Clinical Psychology

Field: Psychology

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Quality education

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,390