Course Design and Development

For module start dates, view the 2023-24 Module Calendar (.docx)

This module explores the many variables involved in designing and developing curricula capable of delivering a valuable and transformative learning experience.

Focusing on education in the health professions, this module will enable you to design a unit of learning whilst considering the political, social, philosophical, professional influences and assumptions embedded in health professions education.

You will be encouraged to take a democratic approach to curriculum design, leading strategies and learning experiences that shapes the contemporary and future health profession workforce.

This module fits well within our Medical and Clinical Education pathway at PG Diploma or Masters level.

Learning outcomes

After the module you will be able to:

1. Design and develop appropriate and innovative face to face and/or online curricula for healthcare practitioners.
2. Critically evaluate the professional philosophies that underpin healthcare curriculum development.
3. Critically evaluate the educational assumptions underpinning, and the political context surrounding, healthcare curriculum development.

Our expert staff

This module is designed and delivered by Dr Chris Green, senior lecturer and researcher in health professions education. He leads the MSc in Medical and Clinical Education (MaCE) and is a Senior Fellow of AdvanceHE.

Chris has published work on interprofessional education, evidence synthesis of educational research, curriculum and pedagogy.

What our participants say

"The course introduced me to educational theory and developed my skills in critically analysing papers and educational processes. I have applied this to my current practice and feel that this has had a positive impact." (GP)

"The course has provided me with a much deeper understanding of the concepts and theories that underpin medical education. It has made me more reflective of my own teaching style and also the teaching I receive from others. It has also developed my interest further in this area and encouraged me to seek out further opportunities to be involved in clinical education within my profession." (Registrar)

"The topics covered enhanced my understanding of research methods in particular, having not studied this area since under-grad. The Curriculum design module helped me analyse and reflect on the curricula I am involved with and consider alternatives. I have implemented changes to some of my teaching and overhauled the course I run to make it more interesting, engaging and useful for students. I have re-written significant parts of a supervision training course which will directly impact trainees’ experiences, and indirectly their and related services."(Psychological therapies lecturer)

• Be working directly with learners within a clinical or higher education setting.
• Ideally have three years post-registration experience.
• Demonstrate an enthusiasm for facilitating learning and challenging own assumptions.

Module Outline

The module is delivered in over two to three timetabled days (usually 09.30 to 16.30) through the summer term. Participants engage in interactive seminars, peer supervision, and design workshops in class, and community activities and discussion online between delivered sessions. Participants may access face-to-face or telephone tutorials to discuss formative coursework and to receive supervision on their educational practices.

Topics covered include:

• Political context of health care practice, education and workforce development.
• Clarifying curriculum aims -educational philosophies and their relevance.
• Curriculum concepts and models.
• The practices of curriculum design – applying models, principles and processes.
• Conceptualising values – professionalism in health professions education.
• Conceptualising curriculum content – the nature of professional competence and performance.

We understand that deciding where and what to study is a very important decision for you. We’ll make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the courses, services and facilities as described on our website. However, if we need to make material changes, for example due to significant disruption, or in response to COVID-19, we’ll let our applicants and students know as soon as possible.

Assessment strategy

A 3000 word critical account and curriculum design document focused on a selected unit of learning in health professions education.

Our CPD Funding page has more information on fees for our modules and potential funding sources.

We have guidance on making your application and the forms to download on our how to apply page.