PURPOSE
To fully realize the curricular benefits of a learning management system
(LMS) mapping database, optimized learning objectives are necessary to align
and frame medical curricular content, learning activities, and assessments.
To achieve this goal, we refined our pre-clerkship learning objectives,
integrating clinical and foundational sciences. Outcomes gathered from our
efforts to achieve explicit and understandable outcome-based learning
objectives are described for integrated, pre-clerkship curricula.
METHODS
Our multi-discipline curriculum mapping team designed a framework for
learning objective optimization based on the SMART method, Bloom’s taxonomy,
and the functional parameters of our approved mapping LMS. We provided
instruction for clinical and foundational science faculty for learning
objective optimization through scheduled information sessions, video
resources, and one-on-one assistance. Faculty coordinators assigned learning
objectives for revision based on course content, subject area of expertise,
and a staggered timeline for each course throughout the academic year. Once
completed, optimized learning objectives were entered into a formatted Google
doc, enabling uniform transfer into our mapping database.
RESULTS
The optimization strategy for populating the LMS was successful. Learning
objectives were revised to fit within character limitations of our LMS,
included one verb per planned outcome, and represented appropriate Bloom’s
hierarchy levels. The refined overarching and enabling learning objectives
were uploaded to create a searchable pre-clerkship curriculum database to
enable curricular mapping efforts. This optimization process resulted in
unified course goals with objectives that were specific, measurable,
attainable, relevant and timely.
CONCLUSION
Optimized learning objectives are at the core of effective medical
curricula, especially those that integrate clinical and foundational science
content with a focus on instructional activities and assessments that measure
growth. Incorporation of specific and succinct learning objectives into a
unified, searchable LMS supports innovative learning outcomes and adaptable
curricular decision-making for students, faculty, and administrators,
promoting curricular integration.