Evaluation of the Content and Structure of Otorhinolaryngology Curricula in Libyan Medical Faculties' Undergraduate Program from 2023-2024

Abstract

This study conducted to evaluate the content and structure of Otorhinolaryngology (ORL) curricula in Undergraduate Medical Education (UME) program in all Libyan medical faculties through surveying the stuff member of the subject. A cross section study conducted from October 2023 to early of January 2024, using structural questionnaire, consisted of 18 questions, [13 closed and 5 opened], administered to stuff members in Libyan medical faculties, 32 out of 52 faculty members completed the survey in (Tripoli, Zawia, Misurata, Sabratha, Benghazi, Omer Elmoukhtar, Alasmarya, Elmergib, Sabha, Tobrouk) medical faculties, other faculties not respond. Respondents represented diverse geographic institutions, lending broader perspectives. The predominant teaching modality was power point lectures were (84.4%), with limited interactive techniques like case-based learning (6.3%), didactic large group lectures (56.3%) were more common than clinical bedside teaching (28.1%). In addition, faculty members expressed concerns on the curriculum is inadequately developing student knowledge (43.3%) and skills (60%), with insufficient teaching hours (62.5%) and suboptimal assessment methods (56.6%). While 57.7% of respondent support establishing separate departmental status for otorhinolaryngology and head/neck specialties from general surgery. This study highlights the necessary to implement a curriculum that includes clinical training alongside standardized lectures and to update the evaluation methods as well as ensure a comprehensive and fair exposure to otorhinolaryngology.