Policy Statement
As part of professional development as physicians-in-training, students are expected to make required medical school activities their highest priority. We expect all students to contribute to group learning and participate in problem solving. Preparation prior to class and active participation during class are critical not only to each individual’s success, but to the success of one’s fellow students. Ultimately, active participation in groups will better prepare all students for their work in clinical settings. On clerkships, you will often be expected to explain the rationale for your clinical reasoning and proposed treatment plan. You will also be expected to educate your patients. Small groups are critical to developing these skills. The UWSOM expects students to attend and actively participate in all blocks and courses. Participation is part of the grade in many blocks.
Foundations coursework takes priority over elective coursework, extracurricular activities, and employment. You must not sign up for electives, preceptorships, or shadowing experiences which conflict with your Foundations classes, or activities related to Foundations of Clinical Medicine (FCM), Medicine, Health, and Society (MHS) I & II, or Integration Weeks.
| Sessions that are mandatory will be marked as “attendance required” in the curriculum management system, Elentra. Students are required to attend the following session types: Course | Session Types |
|---|---|
| SOM Orientation | • All sessions |
| Foundations Blocks | • Labs • Sessions where patients are present • Small group sessions • Other sessions at the discretion of the block, thread or theme leader, or the local Foundations Dean |
| FCM | • All Immersion sessions • All Hospital Tutorials • All Clinical Skills Workshops • All Primary Care Practicum (PCP) sessions |
| MHS I & II | • All sessions |
| Integration Weeks | • All sessions |
Effective: Current
Last updated: June 23, 2025
Policy Contact: UW School of Medicine, Curriculum Office, somgov@uw.edu; Education Quality Improvement Office, eqi@uw.edu