Related Experiment Videos
A problem-solving format for written examinations in veterinary clinical subjects.
1School of Veterinary Studies, Murdoch University, Western Australia.
The Veterinary Record
|September 2, 1989
Summary
A novel problem-solving exam format for clinical students was developed. This method enhances critical thinking skills and has proven effective as both an assessment and a teaching tool.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Clinical Assessment
Background:
- Traditional written examinations may not fully assess complex clinical problem-solving skills.
- There is a need for innovative assessment methods in clinical subjects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To devise and evaluate a new format for written examinations in clinical subjects.
- To assess the potential of this format as an educational tool.
Main Methods:
- A clinical problem was segmented into sequential parts presented on separate papers.
- Students progressed through parts, with prior information retained for subsequent sections.
- The format was used successfully for seven years in clinical education.
Main Results:
- The examination format effectively tested students' abilities in recalling, collating, analyzing, interpreting, and synthesizing information.
- The method demonstrated success over a seven-year implementation period.
Conclusions:
- The devised examination format is a viable and effective tool for assessing clinical problem-solving skills.
- This approach shows significant potential as a supplementary teaching method in clinical subjects.