Medical students' views on selection tools for medical school--a mixed methods study

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Admissions Processes
• Psychometric Testing

Background:

• Ensuring student and applicant acceptance of medical school selection tools is crucial for fairness and transparency.
• Traditional and non-traditional assessment methods are employed in medical school admissions.
• HPAT-Ireland (Health Professions Admissions Test - Ireland) is a key component of medical school selection in Ireland.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the suitability and acceptability of various medical school selection tools among first-year medical students.
• To specifically evaluate the acceptability of the HPAT-Ireland among Irish medical school applicants.
• To identify specific aspects of the HPAT-Ireland that may require revision.

Main Methods:

• A questionnaire survey was administered to 291 first-year medical students in 2010.
• The survey achieved a 77% response rate, representing approximately one-third of school leaver entrants.
• Data were analyzed to determine preferences for selection tools and perceptions of HPAT-Ireland's fairness.

Main Results:

• A strong majority (98%) favored using school leaving examinations, with significant support for interviews (74%) and other tools.
• 76% of Irish respondents found HPAT-Ireland fair overall, though Section 3 (non-verbal reasoning) was perceived as less acceptable and relevant.
• 54% of respondents had completed a preparatory HPAT-Ireland course.

Conclusions:

• Medical school applicants demonstrate acceptance of diverse selection tools, including non-traditional assessments.
• While HPAT-Ireland is generally viewed as fair, specific sections, such as non-verbal reasoning, may impact overall acceptability.
• Further refinement of assessment components could enhance the perceived fairness and relevance of standardized medical school entrance exams.