Workplace-based assessment instruments in the health sciences

Magnier, K. M., Dale, V. H.M. and Pead, M. J. (2012) Workplace-based assessment instruments in the health sciences. Journal of Veterinary Medical Education, 39(4), pp. 389-395. (doi: 10.3138/jvme.1211-118R)

Abstract

A historical overview of the development of assessment instruments in the health sciences is presented here, with specific attention paid to workplace-based assessment instruments. Three instruments are reviewed in detail: the mini clinical evaluation exercise (mCEX), direct observation of procedural skills (DOPS), and multi-source feedback (MSF). Features common to these instruments include their authenticity, their use in assessing professional skills, and the opportunities they afford for the provision of feedback. Although almost exclusively used in graduate medical training, they are likely to play an increasingly important role in the assessment of veterinary undergraduate students in preparation for professional practice. However, the time and cost associated with implementing these instruments raises questions about their feasibility. The continued search for the holy grail of assessment instruments and the challenges relating to the need for trained assessors leads us to conclude that ultimately, the competence of health professionals should continue to be measured using several complementary instruments.

• Item Type: Articles
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Dale, Dr Vicki
• Authors: Magnier, K. M., Dale, V. H.M., and Pead, M. J.
• Subjects: L Education > LB Theory and practice of education; L Education > LB Theory and practice of education > LB2300 Higher Education
• College/School: University Services > Learning and Teaching Services Division; University Services > Student and Academic Services > Academic Services
• Journal Name: Journal of Veterinary Medical Education
• Publisher: University of Toronto Press
• ISSN: 0748-321X
• ISSN (Online): 1943-7218