Developing and Sustaining a Curriculum for Health Professionals

Module code: 19854 (multi-professional), 26051 (Clinical Teaching Fellow)

In this module, theories, principles and approaches to curriculum design will be critically examined and ways of undertaking needs analysis considered. The implications for curriculum design of the wider policy environment, such as the emphasis on inter-professional working, will also be examined. Using specific examples, the relationship between design and implementation will be analysed and appraised. Theoretical perspectives will be used to analyse specific curricular approaches, such as SPICES, spiral, outcome-based and competency-based models. 

Learning outcomes

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• Demonstrate in-depth knowledge of key theories, principles and approaches to curriculum design and be able to critically appraise them and the possible mismatch between learning theories, educational purposes and curriculum design.
• Assess the implications for curriculum design and implementation of policies of professional learning and development in the health sector.
• Critically appraise specific approaches to curriculum design and apply their knowledge to develop an illustrative example of a curriculum unit in their area of professional expertise.
• Be aware of the influence of the 'hidden curriculum' on what is learnt.
• Understand and appraise the impact of the curriculum on what is taught and learnt through concepts of curriculum. control.

Contact time

• Lectures: 26 hours
• Workshops: 4 hours

Assessment

• A 4,000-word assignment
• Completion of a reflective pro forma demonstrating progress towards the requirements to be a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.