Basic research to guide alterations in an outcome-based curriculum

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study is to provide basic information that can be used to guide alterations in an outcome-based curriculum by analyzing the current curriculum. METHODS: A survey was administered to 103 juniors, 90 seniors, and 97 professors in Chonbuk National University Medical School on the importance of subgraduate and graduate outcomes, the appropriate curriculum to graduate, operational satisfaction, and self-judged achievement. RESULTS: There were significantly meaningful gaps in the importance of graduate and subgraduate outcomes. However, students considered other competencies, except for medical research, more important. The survey data on the appropriate curriculum for graduation and on the operational satisfaction with the curriculum show that overall reorganization of the curriculum is needed. Students felt that they achieved 50 to 60 of 100 with regard to graduate outcomes. Further, students recognize that there are no differences in achievement level between genders. But, they believe that seniors achieve more than juniors. CONCLUSION: A multilateral basic analysis can be useful to guide the improvement of an outcome-based curriculum to help graduates acquire the ability to provide basic medical treatment.