Biomedicine

Abstract

Introduction and Aim: There is a paradigm shift in the attitude and learning behavior of the young generation. To address this and to keep Indian medical teaching at par with western countries, MCI provided new guidelines to teach undergraduate students. The new MCI curriculum is based on a competency program that includes a horizontal as well as vertical integration of subjects. In addition, the curriculum designers have provided a foundation course of one- month duration for the new entrants. The thought process behind this is to acclimatize new students towards the new academic atmosphere, the role of a medical graduate in society, and various national health policies/programs.
Methods: The organization of the foundation program was received with a mixed response from the faculty as well as by the new students. Feedback from the faculty and students was taken to evaluate the success of the foundation program.
Results: While the majority of teachers and students perceived it as a welcome step; many of them felt the duration was long and sessions were getting repetitive. Some students did not like the teachings of basic computer skills, as they are already aware of it. Some faculty members thought that the idea of running a foundation course is too optimistic approach; some topics are better learned with passage of time. In addition, a separate skilled staff should be employed for teaching skills not related to medical teaching. The comments were tabulated and analyzed.
Conclusion: The faculty and students perceive it as a welcome step. The main merit of the course is the orientation and sensitization of the new entrant. The main demerit is the long duration of one-month.