Developing an objective based curriculum for a family practice residency

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Curriculum Development
• Family Medicine Training

Background:

• Limited literature exists on developing and agreeing upon behavioral objectives in residency programs.
• Objective development is crucial for successful curriculum implementation.
• Family practice residencies face unique challenges due to broad content and interdepartmental reliance.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a method for developing curriculum objectives in a Family Practice Residency Program.
• To emphasize the importance of involving key stakeholders in the objective development process.

Main Methods:

• Involved program directors, coordinators of specialty rotations, and resident representatives in objective development.
• Focused on personal involvement of individuals instrumental in curriculum implementation.

Main Results:

• The collaborative approach resulted in well-formulated objectives.
• Objectives developed were suitable for implementation.
• The process fostered intensive interaction among faculty from various fields.
• Mutual understanding and appreciation among faculty increased.

Conclusions:

• A participatory approach to developing curriculum objectives is effective for family practice residencies.
• Involving diverse stakeholders enhances objective quality and implementability.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration improves faculty relationships and program synergy.