Curricular Reform Experience with Academic Community Participation and Competency-Based Education

Abstract:

Introduction:

Rethinking the teaching-learning process is a continuous task in medical training, with the constant requirement of applying the best evidence. Although the needs for change are widely known, the means to carry them out are not. Therefore, this report aims to describe the methodology used by a traditional medical school during its curricular reform process, which had the active participation of the academic community.

Experience:

A committee for curricular reform was appointed, including students, academic and professional staff. Following the principles of Design Thinking, prior knowledge was organized and listening processes were structured. A competency-based matrix was developed, with horizontally integrated disciplines and prioritization of practical activities, allowing for reduced total class hours of the course. The implemented reforms required complex institutional changes beyond the matrix, such as changing the evaluative culture and the implementation of the portfolio, in addition to other hidden curricular issues.

Discussion:

The challenge of creating flexible and sustainable processes seems to be overcome by empowering the community to collaborate with the educational management. In addition to coordinators and directors, all agents of the learning process must be brought together horizontally with active participation in proposing changes. Barriers and distances in relation to literature can be faced, and limitations must be admitted in order to preserve appropriate identities and guarantee viable projects.

Conclusion:

Training competent professionals is the goal of curricula, which must be continually reviewed. The reform described allowed for the strengthening of ties between the community, delivering a representative project that was adequate to the specific reality.

Keywords:
Medical Education; Competency-Based Education; Learning; Curriculum