Elective modules in the behavioural sciences.

An elective modules programme in the behavioural sciences was designed for the undergraduate medical curriculum at The Ohio State University College of Medicine. The programme provides a mechanism by which a broad range of behavioural science content can be introduced into the curriculum without increased allocation of teaching staff or budget. Student preference data indicate some clear differences with the more popular modules being those which focus on skills or behaviours that students perceive to be useful in the immediate practice of medicine. The elective aspect of the programme was part of its initial appeal, both to students and teaching staff. Two years of course evaluation data from the students indicate that most individual modules and the programmes as a total have been successful in achieving their intentions. The programme has now been included as a permanent component of the curricula.