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Voluntary election of basic science courses by medical students
Journal of Medical Education
|April 1, 1975
Summary
Medical students at the University of Washington have significant control over their education through electives. Many students voluntarily choose basic science courses, indicating a perceived need for in-depth study in these areas.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Curriculum Design
- Student-Centered Learning
Background:
- The University of Washington's medical curriculum allocates 50% of credits to electives.
- Students have substantial freedom in selecting elective courses.
- Elective choices often balance basic sciences and clinical disciplines.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze student elective choices in the medical curriculum.
- To understand student perceptions of basic science course needs.
- To inform curriculum development based on student preferences.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of elective credit selections over four entering medical school classes.
- Quantitative review of student course enrollment data.
Main Results:
- A disproportionately high number of credits were elected in anatomy and pharmacology.
- Students voluntarily elected a significant number of basic science credits.
- This pattern suggests a student-perceived need for advanced basic science coursework.
Conclusions:
- Medical students actively seek in-depth knowledge in basic sciences through electives.
- Curriculum designers should provide opportunities for advanced study in basic sciences.
- Voluntary election of courses can enhance student learning and engagement.