Classroom Experiences
During the Foundations phase, you’ll learn scientific principles fundamental to the practice of medicine, explore ethical and professionalism issues, start to develop your history-taking and physical examination skills, and begin to understand the pathophysiological basis for disease.
Goals
Our goals for the Foundations phase are:
- Provide a solid foundation in the basic medical sciences
- Show the importance of basic sciences in the practice of medicine
- Provide a solid foundation in pathophysiology
- Introduce you to an evidence-based approach to decision making
- Provide a foundation for future independent learning
- Teach you to identify, retrieve, and assess the biomedical literature
- Provide an introduction to patient care
- Help you develop your clinical skills to the level needed for clinical coursework
- Adhere to the highest standard of integrity and honesty in all professional relationshipsÂ
Learning Formats
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Each course has a unique blend of learning formats. You’ll:
- Be part of large group active learning sessions
- Participate in hands-on activities
- Hone your clinical skills by working with standardized patients and models in a variety of simulation settings
- Interact with classmates and specialized facilitators in small group settings
- Engage with online active learning modules
Curriculum Contacts
Assistant Dean for Curriculum  Â
Katherine (Betsy) Murray, MD, MPHÂ Â Â
kemurray@umn.edu
Director of Instructional Design  Â
Jess Blum, PhDÂ Â Â
jblum@umn.edu
Foundations Curriculum Manager  Â
Elle Fasteland  Â
efastela@umn.edu
Director of Clinical Immersion and Transitions  Â
Holly Proffitt, PhDÂ
proff022@umn.edu
Contact
Director of Integrated Education - Foundational Sciences
Kelaine Haas, PhD
khaas@umn.edu