An effective integrated learning programme in the first year of the medical course

BACKGROUND: An integrated approach to teaching medical subjects is an effective educational strategy. Yet, this has not become popular in medical colleges in India. We describe an integrated learning programme to teach the gastrointestinal system in the first year of the medical course. METHODS: The integrated learning programme was conducted for 3 years (2003-2005). It incorporated elements of problem-based learning, early clinical exposure, lectures and small group laboratory work. Student assessment was formative (for problem-based learning sessions) and summative (using problem-based learning and knowledge tests). Evaluation of the programme was based on feedback from the students and faculty members. RESULTS: Ninety-six per cent of the students obtained more than 60% marks in the problem-based learning test. The mean (SD) score in the knowledge test was 62 (0.89)%. The majority of students received satisfactory and more than satisfactory grades for their performance in the problem-based learning sessions. The feedback from faculty members and students was positive, which highlighted benefits such as integrated learning of the basic sciences, their application to clinical cases and active student learning. The challenges encountered included the higher input required from faculty members. Most of the faculty members and students recommended that the integrated programme should be continued and extended to other parts of the curriculum. CONCLUSION: An integrated learning programme is feasible within a conventional medical curriculum of an Indian medical college.