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Diseases of the curriculum

S Abrahamson

    Journal of Medical Education
    |December 1, 1978
    PubMed

    Insights

    This study identifies nine recurring "diseases of the curriculum" in American medical schools. Naming and describing these educational challenges may aid in solving persistent curriculum development problems.

    Area of Science:

    • Medical Education
    • Curriculum Development
    • Educational Administration

    Background:

    • Over 20 years, the author consulted at numerous American medical schools.
    • Recurring issues in curriculum and instruction were observed.
    • These persistent problems are termed "diseases of the curriculum."

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To identify and describe recurring problems in medical school curricula.
    • To categorize these issues as distinct "curriculum diseases."
    • To offer insights that may help resolve these educational challenges.

    Main Methods:

    • Qualitative analysis of observations from extensive consultations.
    • Categorization of identified curriculum problems into distinct entities.
    • Descriptive explanation of each identified curriculum problem.

    Main Results:

    • Nine specific "diseases of the curriculum" were identified and named.
    • Each condition is explained with illustrative material.
    • The underlying science for educational problems is not fully understood.

    Conclusions:

    • Identifying and naming curriculum problems is a first step toward solutions.
    • This framework may assist in addressing serious curriculum development issues.
    • Further research into the science of education is needed for deeper understanding.

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