Task analysis in neurosciences programme design--neurological problems in general practice.

Defining educational objectives is the key to achieving the goal of professional competence in students. The technique of task analysis was selected to determine components of competence in clinical neurology appropriate to the needs of primary care. A survey of neurological problems in general practice revealed that these constitute a significant proportion of consultations, and that teaching programmes have failed to provide the appropriate knowledge and skills to manage the commonest problems effectively. Consideration is given to innovations in curriculum and programme design whereby the graduating student might be more suitably prepared to give primary care.