Community-based curriculum development: what does it really mean?

Abstract

Throughout the UK medical schools, encouraged by the General Medical Council, are grappling with curriculum changes. One aspect of these is a growing emphasis on community-based education. Putting theories and advice into practice is not easy. This article outlines the efforts of one Department of General Practice to develop a clear philosophy on which to build its curriculum and illustrates the application of this philosophy in the development of a community-based early clinical contact course for first-year students. The philosophy was constructed from the basis of whole person medicine and a conceptual model of knowledge. Initial course evaluation indicates strong support from students.