title: The hidden and informal curriculum across the continuum of training: A cross-sectional qualitative study.
abstract: 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.
authors: a Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario , Canada .|b Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute , Canada .|c University of Ottawa , Canada.
authors: Asif
authors: A
authors: Doja
authors: a Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario , Canada .|b Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute , Canada .|c University of Ottawa , Canada.
authors: M Dylan
authors: MD
authors: Bould
authors: b Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute , Canada .
authors: Chantalle
authors: C
authors: Clarkin
authors: b Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute , Canada .
authors: Kaylee
authors: K
authors: Eady
authors: c University of Ottawa , Canada.
authors: Stephanie
authors: S
authors: Sutherland
authors: a Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario , Canada .|b Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario Research Institute , Canada .|c University of Ottawa , Canada.
authors: Hilary
authors: H
authors: Writer
mesh_terms: D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D003479:Curriculum; D004501:Education, Medical / Q000379:methods*; D004504:Education, Medical, Undergraduate; D017144:Focus Groups; D006801:Humans; D036301:Qualitative Research; D013337:Students, Medical / Q000523:psychology