Use of the Delphi technique to facilitate interdisciplinary consensus on academic program structure

Abstract

Aims: This project was undertaken to explore the utility of the Delphi technique in facilitating interdisciplinary dialogue and consensus on academic program structure for honours programs in health disciplines at one university. Method: Thirty-one faculty academic staff across 17 different health disciplines participated in a two stage Delphi survey (response rate 58%). These staff included heads of schools and disciplines, and postgraduate and honours coordinators. Results and Discussion: Use of a Delphi survey provided an approach where divergent opinions could be considered in a transparent process of achieving consensus on program structure. The Delphi survey, as used in this project, was a successful curriculum development tool in the specific context of honours programs. Use of the survey promoted interdisciplinary dialogue around the structure and content of academic programs in ways that had not occurred previously within the faculty. Conclusions: While the specific outcomes of this project relate primarily to the honours programs within one faculty, the Delphi approach could easily be adapted and implemented in other health discipline education settings where greater interdisciplinary dialogue is sought.