Analysis of the Curriculum of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Kordofan, Sudan: Using Harden’s 10 Questions Framework 2022

Abstract

Background: Curriculum analysis involves unpacking the curriculum into its component parts and evaluating how these parts fit  together. The aim of this study is to analyze the curriculum of the Faculty of Medicine, University of Kordofan (FM-UK), Sudan, using  Harden’s 10 questions of curriculum development framework.

Methods: This is a mixed qualitative and quantitative descriptive purposive study. The qualitative descriptive study is based on  documents analysis. All necessary documents of the college were reviewed. Intensive interviews were performed with the leading administration personnel in the College, Regional Ministry of Health, Teaching Hospital and Community Leaders. Focus Group  Discussions were conducted separately for representatives of the students and representatives of the nonacademic staff. Thematic analysis was then used to categorize the findings. This quantitative study used a self-administered questionnaire for fifth-year students’ perceptions of the educational environment including Likert scale and open-ended questions. The quantitative data were analyzed using  SPSS.

Results: The curriculum is built to meet the needs of the local community. The objectives are clear, and the content is adequate.  The educational strategies, teaching methods, student assessment, and study organization need to be updated. There are deficiencies in  the learning environment, delivery of the curriculum, and how it is communicated. 

Conclusion: Harden’s 10 questions are all addressed  by the curriculum of the FM-UK. There is a need for establishment of the school in this community and the curriculum supports the  mission and objectives. There are areas identified for improvement.