Journal of Medical Education and Development (Jul 2016)

Students\' view of the hidden curriculum in the transmission characteristic of professionalism in Bushehr University of Medical Science: A qualitative study

  • M Sharifjaafari,
  • M Yazdankhahfard,
  • M Ravanipour,
  • N Motamed,
  • SH Pouladi,
  • J Ahmadloo

Journal volume & issue
Vol. 11, no. 1
pp. 76 – 90

Abstract

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Introduction: Researches show that medical professionalism is threatened and it is needed a proper educational intervention. Hidden curriculum plays a very important role of transmission of professional values. Most of expert curriculum planners found that the effects of the hidden curriculum of education from the educational dimensions, in particular, in transmission of values and norms is far more powerful than the obvious curriculum. Methods: In this qualitative content analysis, 15 students individually and 9 students in one group were selected in Bushehr University of Medical Sciences and semistructures interview was done. Participants of this study were medical students, nursing and midwifery students, operating room and anesthesia students in Bushehr University of Medical Sciences. Data were analyzed by using content analysis in seven steps. The accuracy of data was confirmed from various methods. Conclusion: After coding and categorizing the obtained data, the students mentioned to the three main themes as the hidden curriculum role in transition of professional characteristic. These three main roles were "communication", "principles, laws and regulations" and "supportive atmosphere". Results: Inappropriate organizational structure in the health system created some serious obstacles in the paths of professionalism. Based on the findings, some factors were considered as facilitating professionalism. They included having a good relationship, having encouragement and support system, and having the rules facilitate professionalism and organizations as well as organizational and managerial failures of Ministry of Health, educational system and lack of attention to the hidden curriculum in the transfer of professionalism were considered as inhibitors.

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