The hidden and informal curriculum across the continuum of training: A cross-sectional qualitative study.
OBJECTIVE
The hidden and informal curricula refer to learning in response to unarticulated processes and constraints, falling outside the formal medical curriculum. The hidden curriculum has been identified as requiring attention across all levels of learning. We sought to assess the knowledge and perceptions of the hidden and informal curricula across the continuum of learning at a single institution.


METHODS
Focus groups were held with undergraduate and postgraduate learners and faculty to explore knowledge and perceptions relating to the hidden and informal curricula. Thematic analysis was conducted both inductively by research team members and deductively using questions structured by the existing literature.


RESULTS
Participants highlighted several themes related to the presence of the hidden and informal curricula in medical training and practice, including: the privileging of some specialties over others; the reinforcement of hierarchies within medicine; and a culture of tolerance towards unprofessional behaviors. Participants acknowledged the importance of role modeling in the development of professional identities and discussed the deterioration in idealism that occurs.


CONCLUSIONS
Common issues pertaining to the hidden curriculum exist across all levels of learners, including faculty. Increased awareness of these issues could allow for the further development of methods to address learning within the hidden curriculum.
a Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario , Canada.|b Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute , Canada.|c University of Ottawa , Canada.
Asif
A
Doja
a Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario , Canada.|b Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute , Canada.|c University of Ottawa , Canada.
M Dylan
MD
Bould
b Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute , Canada.
Chantalle
C
Clarkin
b Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute , Canada.
Kaylee
K
Eady
c University of Ottawa , Canada.
Stephanie
S
Sutherland
a Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario , Canada.|b Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute , Canada.|c University of Ottawa , Canada.
Hilary
H
Writer
D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D002982:Clinical Clerkship; D002983:Clinical Competence; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D003479:Curriculum; D004501:Education, Medical / Q000458:organization & administration; D004504:Education, Medical, Undergraduate / Q000458:organization & administration; D005180:Faculty, Medical; D017144:Focus Groups; D006801:Humans; D008611:Mentors; D013337:Students, Medical / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires