Implementation and evaluation of a model geriatrics curriculum

An evaluation of a case-based, problem-oriented, modular curriculum in geriatrics for medical students was designed by the authors to investigate (a) whether students would demonstrate cognitive knowledge gain in geriatrics, (b) whether students' attitudes toward the elderly would change favorably, (c) whether suggested learning activities in geriatrics would positively influence students' ratings of these activities in geriatrics, and (d) which institutional characteristics facilitate implementation of the new curriculum. The results indicated that using the modules did produce statistically significant gains in students' cognitive knowledge of geriatrics. Using the modules did not, however, influence the students' attitudes toward the elderly. Clinical or related learning activities involving elderly persons were rated positively by students; however, only two of the participating medical schools in the evaluation provided such experiences. Data from questionnaires and site visits identified several factors which may be helpful in the implementation of geriatrics or other new curricular material into existing curricular structures.