Exploring the Impact of Multidisciplinary Medical Day Events on Middle School Students' Interest in Healthcare Careers

Abstract

Early exposure to healthcare careers is a critical strategy in diversifying the nursing workforce and fostering interest in health professions among middle school students. This study examines the implementation and outcomes of a one-day interdisciplinary "Medical Day" event designed to integrate healthcare themes across core academic subjects and promote career and college readiness (CCR). Grounded in transformational learning theory and action research methodology, the intervention engaged 48 students, in five structured activities, across Science, Mathematics, English Language Arts (ELA), Social Studies, and a culminating pandemic simulation. Each activity aligned with grade-level standards and simulated real-world nursing and healthcare roles. An adapted version of the “Activity Bingo” tool (Glessmer et al., 2023) is used to measure student awareness of engagement and skill application across 11 learning objectives. Of the 48 participants, 42 completed the Activity Bingo tool. Results showed 95.24% of students indicated they learned a new medical term and wore personal protective equipment, and 85.71% engaged in simulated life-saving procedures. Lower engagement is observed in tasks involving abstract ethical reasoning, such as learning the Hippocratic Oath (38.1%). These findings suggest that tactile, context-rich activities are particularly effective in promoting active learning and interest in healthcare professions. Medical Day offers a scalable, evidence-informed model for early exploration of healthcare careers. It highlights the role of K–12 education in shaping a diverse future nursing workforce through curriculum innovation, simulation, and community engagement.