Student views on continuous assessment at Birmingham University Medical School

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Student Assessment
• Curriculum Development

Background:

• Continuous assessment is a key component of medical school curricula.
• Evaluating student performance requires effective and accepted assessment methods.
• Birmingham Medical School utilizes a continuous assessment system for its medical students.

Purpose of the Study:

• To gauge student opinions on the continuous assessment system at Birmingham Medical School.
• To identify specific student criticisms and preferences regarding the current assessment methods.
• To provide recommendations for enhancing the existing continuous assessment scheme.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire survey was distributed to 621 students across the first four years of medical study.
• A response rate of 78% (482 students) was achieved.
• Qualitative comments and quantitative preferences regarding the assessment system were collected.

Main Results:

• The vast majority of students (92%) expressed a preference for the continuous assessment system over traditional final examinations.
• Numerous student comments and criticisms concerning the assessment system were documented.
• Student feedback highlighted areas for potential improvement within the current scheme.

Conclusions:

• The continuous assessment system at Birmingham Medical School is largely favored by students compared to conventional final examinations.
• Student feedback provides valuable insights for refining and optimizing the assessment process.
• Implementing proposed recommendations can further enhance the effectiveness and student satisfaction with the assessment system.