2011-2012

The Program for Integrated Learning (PIL) provides an alternative to a lecture-based curriculum. The center of this curriculum is the small group in which students study clinical cases. Guided by a faculty facilitator, students learn in an integrated, interactive format, mastering the sciences basic to medicine, behavioral sciences, community and preventive medicine, women's health and principles of medical ethics, as well as communication, physical diagnosis and history-taking skills. The small group experience is enhanced by structured labs and resource sessions presented by facult. Focus on clinical cases assures that students emphasize learning in disciplines dealing with the Patient as a Person and provides first year students an opportunity to use what they learn in a clinical setting during their Primary Care Practicum in the fourth block. In addition to acquiring scientific knowledge and clinical skills, PIL students learn teamwork and begin to develop the professional skills required to interact with patients and colleagues, including the ability to give and receive constructive criticism (evaluation) and to present material to peers. PIL provides the context for students to develop lifelong, independent learning skills from the first day they begin classes.