Development and implementation of an interactive, objective, and simulation-based curriculum for general surgery...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Surgical Training
• Curriculum Development

Background:

• Residency programs require effective curricula for training future surgeons.
• Engaging both residents and faculty is crucial for successful didactic programs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a systematic, competency-based core curriculum for a general surgery residency.
• To assess resident satisfaction and perceived abilities following curriculum implementation.

Main Methods:

• A faculty-resident steering committee developed a weekly core curriculum with defined objectives.
• Resident perceptions of curriculum value and satisfaction were collected via anonymous online surveys at baseline, 6 months, and 1 year.
• Statistical analyses (chi-squared, Kruskal-Wallis) compared survey responses over time.

Main Results:

• 102 surveys were completed, showing increases in satisfaction across all 15 items from baseline to 1-year follow-up.
• Nine of the 15 items demonstrated statistically significant improvement, particularly in conference quality and presentation interaction.
• Resident self-reported clinical and academic abilities also improved.

Conclusions:

• A systematic, collaborative approach to curriculum development significantly enhances resident satisfaction.
• The competency-based core curriculum improved resident-reported satisfaction and abilities in general surgery residency.
• Faculty-resident engagement is key to successful curriculum implementation and improved educational outcomes.