The impact of programmatic assessment on student learning: theory versus practice

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Assessment in Higher Education

Background:

• Assessment significantly influences student learning outcomes.
• Programmatic assessment aims to optimize learning and decision-making at the program level.
• Limited research exists on the specific effects of programmatic assessment on student learning.

Purpose of the Study:

• Investigate elements of programmatic assessment perceived by students to support or inhibit learning.
• Identify factors influencing students' active construction of learning within a programmatic assessment framework.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative study in a graduate-entry medical school utilizing programmatic assessment.
• Interviews with 17 pre-clinical students regarding their perceptions of programmatic assessment and learning.
• Theory-based thematic analysis of collected data.

Main Results:

• Programmatic assessment elements (feedback, portfolios, assignments) had both supportive and inhibiting effects on learning.
• Students perceived formative assessment as summative, and programmatic assessment acted as a learning trigger.
• Reflective portfolio activities were valued for knowledge generation and feedback utilization, though not universally appreciated.

Conclusions:

• Programmatic assessment can foster active learner participation when supportive elements are emphasized.
• Specific features of comprehensive assessment programs influence student learning, with potential for both positive and negative impacts.
• Tailoring programmatic assessment to student perceptions is crucial for optimizing learning.