Structuring Quality Education by Proposing Physical Infrastructure of a Medical School

Abstract

Due to cost containment considerations, it is common to have medical schools being located in buildings or campuses built for some other purposes. These buildings are converted into medical schools which often compromising the functional architectural aspects. Objectives: The paper examines, explores and proposes an architectural concept of a purpose-built medical school. The architectural design proposed is sensitive to the values and norms of many schools around the globe. Methods: An Internet search and personal communication were conducted, focusing on the concepts of the functionality of medical school. It emphasises on general design of the main building, keeping in mind the various kinds of teaching, learning and assessment activities. We examined lecture hall, pre-clinical laboratory, skill laboratory, general facilities of Objective Structured Practical Examination (OSPE) and Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE). Results: We present hypothetical structural designs based on built-functions concepts. For example, for the better vision of students around a demonstration table, an inclined floor surface is proposed. The concept is as illustrated by anatomy dissection area built inclined upward from the cadaver table. It inevitably provides a better visual access to the students around the table. Other teaching and learning areas are also illustrated wherever appropriate in the text. Conclusion: The paper is hypothetical and explores innovative structural designs of modern medical schools. While most are built to meet the demands of current technology, it cannot however completely replace face-to-face teaching and learning processes. Research in architectural designs of education buildings and facilities may be further developed into a new research niche of medical education.