University of Ottawa modified systems program

A modified systems program has been developed at the University of Ottawa which incorporates advantages of the systems approach into whole-class teaching without increasing demands on staff. Basic science instruction is given in the first two years in preclinical departments. A total of 387 lecture and laboratory hours previously assigned to organ pathology and clinical departments are allocated to committees representing 12 systems. This program emphasizes pathology and pathophysiology and is supervised by a Coordinating Systems Committee. It begins in November of the second year and continues one year concurrently with instruction in clinical skills and basic science. A clinical clerkship occupies the final 18 months of the curriculum. Program effectiveness is measured by student evaluation of each lecture, multiple-choice examination, lecture monitoring, handout surveillance, and annual review of each system. This organization coordinates teaching of a single subject by many disciplines, and evaluation exposes flaws in teaching.