Successful peer review of courses: a case study

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Curriculum Development
• Faculty Evaluation

Background:

• A peer review system for courses was established in 1988 to improve faculty evaluation and curriculum development.
• The system was operational for five years before temporary suspension during curriculum transition.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare faculty and student course reviews.
• To assess the impact of peer review on curriculum reform.
• To provide guidelines for implementing faculty-led course review processes.

Main Methods:

• Comparative analysis of faculty and student course ratings.
• Documentation of the peer review system's influence on curriculum transformation.
• Development of guidelines for peer review implementation.

Main Results:

• Faculty and student ratings agreed on 75% of courses.
• Discrepancies revealed students favored less demanding courses with easier grading.
• The peer review system positively influenced curriculum reform and faculty interaction.

Conclusions:

• Faculty peer review is a valuable tool for enhancing course quality and curriculum development.
• Successful implementation relies on respected peer committees, faculty support, and dedicated reviewers.
• The system fostered improved faculty-student interactions and curriculum reform.