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JRCERT Update

Curriculum Mapping:

Aligning Content and Design

Tracy Herrmann, PhD, R.T.(R)
Tricia Leggett, DHEd, R.T.(R)(QM), FASRT

A the inclusion of this content; however, the inclusion of
curriculum map provides a visual representa-
the content does not ensure that the curriculum is well-
tion and analysis of the relationship between
program courses and student learning out-
structured as required by the JRCERT. Curriculum
5
comes (SLOs). The mapping process is an
tion for assessing and developing a well-structured
effective tool for ensuring that the program’s SLOs, cur- mapping is a best practice technique in higher educa-
riculum content, and structure are aligned. The devel- curriculum. 6
opment of a curriculum map is an important step to
ensuring continuous program improvement. Curriculum Mapping
A curriculum map can be simple, incorporating pro-
Curriculum Design gram outcomes and courses only, or detailed to include
A program’s curriculum affects the level of stu- variables such as program courses and goals, methods
dent success on the American Registry of Radiologic of instruction, and assessment tools. The level of detail
Technologists credentialing exam and in professional and specificity is determined by each institution’s
practice. The curriculum content and design should requirements. 7
be reviewed regularly to ensure it is comprehensive, The mapping process supports decision-making for
well-structured, and reflective of current practices. improvement of courses and refinement of goals and
Faculty should consider how and where learning and expectations. An added benefit is that it fosters faculty
8
assessments occur throughout the curriculum to ensure collaboration and develops a sense of community, com-
important topics, such as clinical competence, profes- munication, and coordination. Curriculum mapping
8,9
sionalism, and cultural competency, are included. 1-3 makes the curriculum more transparent to stakeholders
Faculty can develop curricular design and con- and supports decisions for continuous quality improve-
tent through review processes based on institutional ment. 8,10
and national sources. Joint Review Committee on
Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT)– Map Development
accredited programs must adhere to a nationally Curriculum maps ensure alignment and continuity
recognized curricula such as those developed and throughout the program, from program goals and SLOs
adopted by the American Society of Radiologic to course outcomes and assessment of student learning.
Technologists. Programs accredited by the JRCERT When striving for alignment, it is critical to start with
must document the location of the national curriculum the end in mind, a design method known as backward
content specifications by completing a curriculum design. The most important difference between stan-
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analysis grid. The curriculum must support students’ dard and backward course design is who is at the center
4
attainment of specific professional knowledge to ensure of the design. The standard method puts the faculty
they pass the national credentialing exam. member and his or her process in course development
Program curriculum must contain all elements of the at the center, whereas the backward method features
professional curriculum and certification exam specifi- the student at the center and lists steps for meeting his
cations. The JRCERT curriculum analysis grid ensures or her learning needs. To begin the mapping process,

530 asrt.org/publications
Reprinted with permission from the American Society of Radiologic Technologists for educational purposes. ©2019. All rights reserved.