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Does blueprint publication affect students' perception of validity of the evaluation process?
Kevin McLaughlin1, Sylvain Coderre, Wayne Woloschuk
1University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada. kevin.mclaughlin@calgaryhealthregion.ca
Summary
Publishing evaluation blueprints significantly improved medical students' perception of fairness and curriculum alignment in their Renal Course assessments. This enhanced validity perception did not correlate with overall course satisfaction.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Assessment Validity
Background:
- Demonstrating content validity in evaluations is crucial, aligning curriculum with learner abilities.
- The publication and transparency of evaluation blueprints remain a debated topic in academic assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of publishing evaluation blueprints on students' perception of assessment validity.
Main Methods:
- Student attitudes towards the Renal Course evaluation were assessed pre- and post-blueprint publication.
- Questionnaires measured student perceptions of evaluation fairness and curriculum reflection.
- Minimum performance levels and exam scores were analyzed for changes.
Main Results:
- A higher percentage of students found the evaluation fair and reflective of course content after blueprint publication.
- No significant changes were observed in minimum performance levels or evaluation scores.
- A trend towards decreased overall course satisfaction was noted despite improved evaluation perception.
Conclusions:
- Publishing evaluation blueprints enhances students' perceived validity of the assessment process.
- Blueprint transparency may guide instructors and students toward critical educational components.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the underlying reasons for these attitude shifts.