A discussion of the place of medical history in the undergraduate medical curriculum looks at the evolution and trends in this area of instruction from the late 19th century to the present. Curriculum models and teacher qualifications are examined. An annotated bibliography of medical history sources is included. (MSE)

It is argued that the medical school curriculum should include content on jurisprudence to empower physicians to use the law and their legal colleagues to serve patients and promote public welfare. Developing practitioners' skills and changing attitudes are seen as more important than imparting information about particular doctrines and laws. (MSE)

This article argues that study of literature in the medical curriculum develops physician skills in observation and interpretation, clinical imagination, and self-expression and self-knowledge; enriches moral education; fosters tolerance for uncertainty; and promotes empathy for patients. Appropriate courses for inclusion of and classroom…

It is argued that study of philosophy in medical school develops better physicians by teaching salient views of ethical, social, and conceptual problems arising in medical practice. Students learn to examine assumptions, broaden perspectives and gain self-knowledge, develop critical thinking skills, generate tolerance and skepticism about dogma,…

It is proposed that integration of religious studies into existing courses in the medical curriculum can help foster medical students' respect for patient individuality within a cultural context, heighten self-awareness of beliefs and values as professional resources, address value-laden aspects of patient encounters, and strengthen commitment to…

A medical school course integrating basic science and clinical issues consists of 13 problem-based learning exercises, each exploring a clinical case. Using networked terminals in specially-designed small-group rooms, students progress through cases with a faculty facilitator. Users cite access to better images, accountability, and juxtaposition…

This article argues that computer literacy is especially useful for medical students because it supports cognitive processes needed for effective learning and professional practice. Three approaches are compared: learning about computers, using computer-assisted instruction, and using computers in daily work. It is concluded that none is…

A study of predictors of performance of 123 internal medicine residents at the University of Michigan found the most significant predictors to be internal medicine clerkship grade, honor society status, medical school reputation, and scores on the National Board of Medical Examiners, Part I examination. Results suggest that the intern selection…

A study investigated changes in medical students' attitudes toward homosexuality following midyear freshman exposure to a panel presentation and after psychiatry clerkship. Group attitudes of three consecutive medical school classes were consistent, beginning and largely remaining in the "low-grade homophobic" category. An ongoing forum to explore…

Problems in the search and selection of college presidents that make presidential success difficult are examined, including expectations of the search process; need for support of the board, faculty, and executive officers; and expectations about candidates' longevity and mobility. Five salient leadership characteristics are identified:…

The participative model of institutional budgeting is compared briefly with two other common models, and its rationale is discussed. An explanation of nine basic principles of participative budgeting uses examples from a variety of colleges and universities, and concludes with the author's reflections on the approach, based on his experience. (MSE)

This article notes that recent changes in medical schools, due to funding trends and decreased demand for specialist services, have prompted dramatic changes in roles and rewards of faculty. Strategies for managing the changes are outlined for four areas: promotion and tenure, moving toward collective thinking, refining institutional mission and…

An examination of trends in undergraduate liberal arts degrees and curricula reports two findings: (1) renewed interest in the liberal arts degree has occurred primarily outside liberal arts colleges, within universities; and (2) the struggle for institutional survival has caused some colleges to scale back or abandon their original missions. (MSE)

A national survey of 212 colleges and universities investigated the strategies and characteristics of institutions that are able to maintain a strong emphasis on both research and undergraduate teaching. Results indicate those that are successful are unique in certain respects that distinguish them from research universities and liberal arts…

The trend toward an increasing proportion of research and doctoral institutions in higher education is examined, based on an analysis of changes in Carnegie classifications since 1976. Results suggest that the graduate/research model and the prestige associated with doctorate-level education are strongly attractive, despite pressures to…