I do like the new curriculum. However, the class is probably 50/50 or a majority has a distaste for it. I would prefer more presentations on material and less readings or just make them supplementary readings.
It basically works like this: You are given a study guide on Monday to complete by the following Monday in order to prepare for classes the next week. The estimated completion time is 40 hours. I know some people who just answer the objectives and get these guides done in 10-20 hours and do average on the exams (They also don't do any of the readings). When that Monday comes around you'll take an individual quiz and then a group quiz (Yes, a group quiz). Honestly, I know what you're thinking, but these group quizzes have been helpful with overall learning (teamwork, identifying weaknesses + strengths, resources, etc.) You'll also do in-class objectives which relate to the info which is presented in class, or sometimes they don't relate at all. Basically, this cycle repeats until an exam. It's important to note that you'll be preparing for the next week's material, while doing the current week's material, and ideally, but idk who has the time, reviewing the previous week's material. The problem comes down to reviewing the material from weeks ago to make sure you retain for the long term which I'll need to start doing more next semester either with Anki or just reviewing the study guides.
The mandatory attendance can be an issue. Simulated patient labs or OMM, I'm assuming is mandatory at every other school. Mandatory class time is usually a presentation with in class questions in which you'll discuss with your teams and then post an answer and explain if called upon. Study time is what you make of it. The pace in class can be kind of slow so I advise reviewing whatever materials are related to what's being discussed in class while doing the in class questions. Otherwise, it can be a waste of a lot of in-between time during questions. So it comes down to this, work hard as hell in class whether it's OMM or a lecture. Make sure you make the most out of your time, or you will get snowballed.
I feel like getting snowballed with this curriculum can hurt a lot because of the quizzes. If you fall behind on a study guide, you probably won't do so hot on the quiz. Then you'll have to complete that study guide while also trying to finish the next week's guide.
It comes down to what you make of it. It's the same story at every other school. I feel that I am being adequately prepared as long as I put the work in. For the most part, if you can understand the material to be completed before the week begins, you should be good to go. Just come here and work hard.
Ultimately, I'm very happy to be attending this school and feel that I'm being propelled in the right direction.
