Principles for the MBBS Strategic Review
April 2010
The following principles have been agreed as the basis to underpin the
strategic direction and proposed changes to the MBBS curriculum:
Principles for curriculum design
To incorporate appropriate recognition and reflection of current
educational theory, evidence and practice.
To develop in our students the skills and philosophies required for
lifelong learning.
To be consistent with the principles and recommendations on
curriculum content, orientation, methods and outcomes specified in
Tomorrow’s Doctors 2009 with regard to the doctor as a scholar and
scientist the doctor as a practitioner and the doctor as a professional.
To integrate academic understanding and clinical experience in order
to contextualise biomedical, social and behavioural sciences and to
ensure that scientific principles are embedded in clinical practice.
To create a structure that is dynamic, can be modified in content and
structure to respond to the evolving role of the doctor and changing
healthcare needs and is able to be delivered in a ‘reconfigured’
provider landscape (using novel delivery methods where appropriate).
To capitalise on the specific advantages of the UCL environment:
preparing graduates for a career in any branch of medicine, whilst
ensuring they are equipped to become clinical academics and future
leaders.
To reflect the values of London’s Global University with reference to
the study and practice of medicine worldwide.
Scientific Principles for curriculum content
An understanding of the structure and function of the body: cells,
tissues, organs and the integrated whole.
An understanding of the underlying fundamental nutritional, metabolic,
signalling and molecular genetic processes, and pharmacological
interventions.
An understanding of the relationship between health, illness, people
and society.
An understanding of the bio-psychosocial model of modern medicine.
The development of critical scientific, analytical and clinical thinking
including the ability to assess, understand and synthesise evidence
The application and integration of knowledge to the diagnosis,
management and care of individuals and populations.
Principles for the development of the practitioner
Encouraging a patient-centred approach recognising that health is coproduced.
Providing a profound grounding in clinical skills.
Providing extensive clinical exposure to create a foundation of
experience.
Encouraging an awareness of resource constraint and the importance
of the doctor functioning in an evidence-based and cost-effective
manner for the benefit of all patients.
Attention to the transition from student to doctor and facilitating the
acquisition of responsibility for decisions and practice.
Familiarity with, and ability to practice in, a contemporary range of
healthcare environments.
An appreciation of the role of the future doctor within the healthcare
environment in the UK and globally.
Principles which support UCL’s mission
To integrate as far as possible with the emerging academic themes
and research base in UCL-Partners, using our institutional expertise as
a unique opportunity to strengthen the course and effect health gain.