Changes to curriculum that represent significant content differences or modified methods of delivery from the curriculum offered during the COCA's most recent onsite review are considered substantive changes and must be presented to the Commission for approval.
The following documentation is required when a COM requests the approval of COCA for substantive curriculum changes:
If the COM is granted COCA approval for the curriculum change, for the next 4 years an annual progress report must be submitted by the school to the Commission to assist in monitoring efforts. Progress reports are expected beginning 1 year postimplementation and will include an analysis of the curriculum changes, noting positive and negative aspects. Likewise, these reports will address the financial, facility, and faculty resources affected by the curriculum change. Finally, data relating to student achievement will also be recorded in the annual progress reports.
Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine in Erie, Pa, received approval from the COCA for substantive change to curriculum in 1999. Readers may wish to review a description of these changes in the October 2007 issue of
JAOA—The Journal of the American Osteopathic Association.
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