Anatomy of curriculum: Digging to the core

Abstract

This viewpoint commentary, written from the perspective of a teacher who has helped to educate students in a wide variety of educational environments, is a reaction to the article published in Anatomical Sciences Education on developing of core syllabuses for the anatomical sciences. After reflecting on the definitions of both curriculum and syllabus and their importance as roadmaps for effective instruction, the value of core knowledge and core syllabuses in anatomical sciences was explored. Encouragement for the pursuit of the project proposed in the original article was provided; however, the reminder to not allow any curriculum or syllabus to prevent instructional flexibility was emphasized. Several constructive questions (regarding democracy in curriculum development, the proposed rating scale, and the desirability of reaching local or national consensus before seeking global agreement) were advanced for consideration.

Thoughts on practical core elements of an ethical anatomical education

“…Major current topics of debate are the need for anatomical dissection by students (McLachlan et al, , ; Rizzolo and Stewart, ; Korf et al, ; Winkelmann, ), different educational technologies and learning approaches including digital teaching aids (Benninger et al, ; Moxham et al, ; Saltarelli et al, ; Topping, ; Hortsch, in press), and the anatomical core curriculum, i.e. the minimum of anatomical education deemed necessary for students to succeed in their medical training (Berman, ; Louw et al, ; Orsbon et al, ).…”

What do electrical outlets and Google Maps have in common with core anatomy curricula? perspectives from anatomists, clinicians, and educationalists

“…Core curriculum proposals are examined through the eyes of anatomists (Moxham et al, 2014), clinical faculty (Orsborn et al, 2014), and educationalists (Berman, 2014).…”

“…The third article, a viewpoint commentary by experienced educationalist Berman (2014) provides insight into core curricula from his unique perspective. This article reflects on the value of core knowledge and core syllabuses, and offers a constructive inquiry into the proposed development of core syllabuses as described by Moxham et al (2014).…”

“…This article reflects on the value of core knowledge and core syllabuses, and offers a constructive inquiry into the proposed development of core syllabuses as described by Moxham et al (2014). The author cautions educators who choose to develop and use these core standards "to not dig so deeply as to lose instructional flexibility" in their teaching and learning environment (Berman, 2014).…”

“…Who will be willing to use these standards and how? There are many questions that should be answered before charging full steam ahead with the effort to develop core curricula or core syllabuses in anatomical sciences-the difference between those two terms is further explored in Berman (2014) and Moxham et al (2014). Would core syllabuses create the expectation for a set of common standards required for all students, irrespective of where in the world they take anatomy?…”