Audit of Representation of Protected Characteristics in Learning Materials in a Block of the MBChB

Grant, R., McKernan, M., Meek, S., Huser, C. and Jamieson, S. (2019) Audit of Representation of Protected Characteristics in Learning Materials in a Block of the MBChB. 9th National Scottish Medical Education Conference, Edinburgh, UK, 9-10 May 2019.

Abstract

Introduction: The BMA, GMC and our University all state that diversity and equality should be promoted in the curriculum. This is important to ensure that students are being prepared to work free of unfounded bias or prejudice. Methods: To determine the extent to which protected characteristics are represented in the MBChB curriculum, an audit was undertaken by two students. The students looked for representation of the 9 protected characteristics: age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage & civil partnership, pregnancy & maternity, race, religion & belief, sex & gender identity and sexual orientation. In addition, socio-economic status was included as it is also recommended to be taken into account by governing bodies. Each piece of learning material was reviewed to ascertain whether there were any opportunities to include representation, and whether these opportunities were taken. Population statistics were derived from the Scottish Household Survey 2015, or from the Scottish Population Census 2007. Results/Discussion: Gender and age were well represented, meaning that when opportunities were available, gender and age were often stated. In addition, both gender and age were represented in proportions similar to those found in the Scottish population. Other characteristics were not as well represented, and when represented, the proportion of representation was variable when compared to the Scottish population. The audit also revealed that instances of representation occurred in all small group teaching material, and that these comprised the majority of instances found. Conclusion: This audit has shown that representation of protected characteristics does occur in the endocrinology block in the curriculum, but that it is not equal for all characteristics. The student researchers have listed some suggested improvements to ensure good representation of all protected characteristics. It was reassuring that the majority of representation occurred during small group teaching, when it can be discussed in depth and tokenism avoided.

• Item Type: Conference or Workshop Item
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Meek, Dr Sarah and Huser, Dr Camille and Jamieson, Professor Susan
• Authors: Grant, R., McKernan, M., Meek, S., Huser, C., and Jamieson, S.
• Subjects: L Education > L Education (General)
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Medicine, Dentistry & Nursing

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