Importance of vertical integration in teaching and assessment of physiological concepts

ObjectivesUnder the existing system of undergraduate curriculum, physiology teaching was done in a traditional non-case based manner. The objective of this research was to develop and implement a respiratory module which would incorporate vertically integrated learning and assessment using multiple teaching methodologies.MethodsA respiratory modular team finalized the clinical cases, themes, relevant objectives, learning strategies, time table and assessment tools. The exam results of this Vertically Integrated Respiratory Module were compared with the results of traditionally delivered Introductory Module for the same group of students. Students' feedback questionnaire was also administered at the end of module.Results99% of the students responded that integrated approach makes learning and understanding easy. 90 % of the students hoped that this mode of teaching would be helpful to them in future clinical years and 92% of the students favored the continuation of this integrated approach in future. Comparison of the results indicated that the passing percentage and the mean score (89% and 68.5) was higher in the Vertically Integrated Respiratory Module as compared to the non case based Introductory Module (70% and 61.5).ConclusionBased on the students feedback we may conclude that teaching physiology via vertically integrated approach may be superior than traditional non case based teaching, because it enhances students interest and facilitates meaningful and deep learning.