A Comparative Study of the Curriculum of Masters Degree in Medical Education in Iran and Some Other Countries

Background & Objective: For greater success of the discipline of medical education and recognition of its weaknesses and strengths performing a comparative study and utilizing the experiences of successful universities is necessary This study was performed to compare the elements of the curricula of medical education discipline in the universities of Dundee (Scotland) Calgary (Canada) and Maastricht (Holland) with Iran Methods: Data were gathered by searching university websites and communicating with them The ۳ universities of Dundee Calgary and Maastricht which had a high ranking in the medical education major were selected as the study sample The research model used in this study was the Beredy model that specifies the four stages of description interpretation proximity and comparison in comparative studies Results: The universities of Dundee Calgary and Maastricht in stating the general characteristics of curriculum have clearly focused on education in the field of medical sciences Elements of mission vision and value were not observed in their curricula In the universities of Dundee and Maastricht educational strategies and the reason for their application and the manner of course presentation had been explained All ۳ universities enrolled bachelor students The course of research in education was emphasized by all universities Conclusion: Based on this comparative study the curriculum of medical education in Iran seems complete and comprehensive However for quality improvement the revision of goals and strategies of the discipline is necessary Moreover the presentation of courses in two forms of virtual and traditional education admission of bachelor (BSc) students replacement of compensatory course with prerequisite courses and emphasizing of research method in education courses are recommended

Keywords:

Comparative study , Curriculum , Beredy model , medical education , Iran , Dundee , Calgary , Maastricht