Assessing competence in undergraduate nursing students: the Amalgamated Students Assessment in Practice model

Assessment of competence is characterised by ambiguity and inconsistency despite its critical role in assessing readiness for entry to the nursing profession. In 2012 the Amalgamated Student Assessment in Practice (ASAP) model and tool were developed and trialled within an Australian University. Developed in response to the inadequacies of existing tools to assess competence, the ASAP model offers an integrated multilayered assessment that is designed to enable focussed diagnosis of practice deficits and implementation of targeted support. The ASAP model was evaluated by gathering clinical facilitator and student feedback over two 13-week semesters during practice and formal meetings, as well as review of student performance data. The ASAP model functioned effectively as an assessment tool, focussed diagnostic tool, removal from Professional Experience Placement (PEP) support tool and a framework for documenting evidence. Student failure rates decreased and the number of complaints and successful appeals was reduced. The ASAP model offers comprehensive focussed assessment of nursing students' performance in practice. It supports both formative and summative feedback and can be used to accurately identify specific areas of practice deficiency requiring redirection and support. It is transferable across settings and assessors.