Purpose: This study aims to enhance functional literacy in medical students by integrating biochemistry teaching with clinical application, thereby fostering professional competence and decision-making readiness.
Research Methodology: A mixed-method approach was implemented with 86 second-year medical students divided into control and experimental groups. The experimental group engaged in case-based learning, simulation tasks, interdisciplinary projects, and formative assessments. Pre- and post-tests, clinical reasoning rubrics, surveys, and instructor observations were used for data collection. Quantitative analysis employed t-tests and ANOVA, while qualitative data underwent thematic content analysis.
Results: The experimental group demonstrated a significant improvement in functional literacy (+26.3%, p < 0.01) compared to the control group (+12.7%, p > 0.05). Higher proportions of experimental group students reached advanced competency levels in applying biochemical knowledge to clinical contexts. Qualitative feedback indicated increased engagement, clarity of purpose, and confidence in clinical reasoning.
Conclusion: Integrating clinical context, active learning strategies, and interdisciplinary collaboration into biochemistry instruction effectively improves functional literacy and bridges the gap between theory and clinical application.
Limitations: The study was limited to one institution and one academic year, which may constrain generalizability.
Contribution: The research offers a cohesive pedagogical framework for embedding functional literacy development into biochemistry courses, demonstrating measurable gains in clinical reasoning and professional readiness.