BACKGROUND: Several studies have shown the beneficial effects of mastery learning of a simulation-based course, but not all trainees complete it.

OBJECTIVES: The purpose of this study was to find deciding factors for the completion of a simulation-based mastery learning course with distributive practice in flexible bronchoscopy.

METHODS: Seventy-seven trainees who signed up for the course were invited to a survey for deciding factors of completing the course. Sixty-two (81%) trainees answered the survey.

RESULTS: Male trainees were more likely to complete the course. The most important factor for completion was clinical relevance, and the most important factor for not completing the course was being "too busy."

CONCLUSION: Several deciding factors for completing the course were identified. Successful simulation-based mastery learning courses should be clinically relevant, and the trainees should be provided protected time to complete the training. The instructional design should also be adapted systematically for male and female trainees to achieve the necessary competencies.