Integration of clinical anatomical sciences in medical education: Design, development and implementation strategies
Mohammed K. Khalil, Eustathia Lela Giannaris, Vaughan Lee, Dolgor Baatar, Saskia Richter, Krista S. Johansen, Priti L. Mishall
Abstract
For the last 20 years, undergraduate medical education has seen a major curricular reform movement toward integration of basic and clinical sciences. The rationale for integrated medical school curricula focuses on the application of knowledge in a clinical context and the early ability to practice key skills such as critical thinking and clinical problem-solving. The method and extent of discipline integration can vary widely from single sessions to entire programs. A challenge for integrated curricula is the design of appropriate assessments. The goal of this review is to provide a framework for clinical anatomy educators with definitions of integration, examples of existing integration models, strategies, and instructional methods that promote integration of basic and clinical sciences.