The integration ladder: a tool for curriculum planning and evaluation

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Curriculum Development
• Educational Strategy

Background:

• Integration is a recognized educational strategy in medical training.
• Discussions on integrated teaching methods are often polarized among educators.
• Existing approaches lack a structured framework for progression.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a continuum of 11 integration levels for medical education.
• To provide a tool for planning, implementing, and evaluating integrated curricula.
• To facilitate discussion and consensus on integrated teaching approaches.

Main Methods:

• Descriptive analysis of 11 integration points.
• Conceptualization of a continuum from isolation to trans-disciplinary integration.
• Identification of requirements at different integration levels.

Main Results:

• An 11-point 'integration ladder' ranging from 'Isolation' to 'Trans-disciplinary'.
• Progression up the ladder requires less disciplinary focus and more central curriculum planning.
• Increased staff participation in curriculum discussions is necessary at higher integration levels.

Conclusions:

• The integration ladder serves as a valuable tool for medical educators.
• It aids in the systematic planning, implementation, and evaluation of medical curricula.
• Provides a framework to navigate polarized views on integrated teaching.