PURPOSE
Several medical schools have adopted integrated curricula to enhance
clinical relevance, often at the expense of foundational sciences. At
Geisinger Commonwealth School of Medicine, biochemistry is taught
intermittently within system-based blocks using a clinical-presentation
framework, which can feel fragmented and hinder retention. To address this
challenge, we developed a comprehensive content map tracking biochemistry
concepts across the 18-month preclinical curriculum. This tool supports
curricular refinement helping students recognize conceptual connections,
promoting continuity, retention, and effective knowledge retrieval.
METHODS
Key concepts, learning objectives, and clinical correlations from existing
biochemistry content in the Integrated Science Course (ISC) were compiled and
mapped to identify when and where each concept is introduced and reinforced.
Key connections across multiple clinical presentations were identified and
provided as conceptual blueprints within study guides to support integrated
learning. A voluntary anonymous survey was administered to ISC students over
two weeks to evaluate the study guides’ usefulness.
RESULTS
Thirty students responded to the survey; 24 provided complete data for
analysis. Most students agreed that the study guides enhanced integration and
retention of biochemistry concepts. Nearly all (96%) reported that the study
guides highlighted connections to prior and upcoming content and valued the
inclusion of clinical relevance. Additionally, 83% indicated improved
reinforcement of biochemistry concepts across clinical presentations, while
88% noted improved retention, retrieval, and confidence in applying concepts
academically and clinically. Qualitative feedback praised clear organization,
visuals, and clinical correlates, with suggestions to shorten length and
clarify optional content.
CONCLUSIONS
Survey responses demonstrate that structured, biochemistry content mapping
effectively promotes learning within an organ system–based clinical
presentation framework. By emphasizing conceptual connections and clinical
relevance, these resources enhance knowledge retention and build confidence
in applying biochemistry concepts. Overall, content mapping offers a
practical, scalable strategy to strengthen continuity and application of
foundational sciences in integrated medical curricula.