Challenges in Implementing an Integrated Curriculum in Xavier University School of Medicine, Aruba

Xavier University School of Medicine (XUSOM) is a private medical school in Aruba shifted to an integrated, organ system-based curriculum from January 2014. There is greater emphasis on problem-based learning, small group activities, early clinical exposure, and self-directed learning. In this article the author describes challenges faced while implementing the integrated curriculum. Among the challenges faced were faculty apprehensions about an integrated curriculum, faculty apprehensions regarding self-directed learning, providing early clinical exposure to the students, organizing activities and practical sessions for students, learning the art of medicine, developing student skills for critical appraisal of scientific literature and developing closer links with the community and the health system. The strategies adopted for overcoming some of these challenges is also described.