Integrating Basic Sciences in the Medical Laboratory Sciences Curriculum: A Case Study of Strategies and Approaches

Abstract

This article was migrated. The article was marked as recommended. The Medical Laboratory Sciences profession in Canada is undergoing a transformation in education whereby students can now earn an undergraduate degree alongside a professional technologist's certification. To accomplish both goals, the undergraduate program must focus simultaneously on the performance of clinical diagnostic testing in the laboratory and the underlying basic science principles and mechanisms. This paper is a reflective analysis of the strategies and approaches to enhance student exposure to foundational science in the context of the competency profile for the profession. We also share our guiding principles in course design and delivery, as well as our lessons learned. In conclusion, each course delivered within the program must take a coordinated approach to underscore integration of basic science into clinical concepts to most effectively enhance clinical knowledge and skills.