Development and Validation of a Geriatrics Knowledge Test to Evaluate Geriatrics Fellowship Programs.

Area of Science:

• Geriatric Medicine
• Medical Education
• Assessment and Evaluation

Background:

• Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education mandates evaluation of geriatrics fellowship programs.
• Existing evaluation instruments are insufficient, posing challenges for program assessment.
• Development of a validated knowledge test is crucial for effective geriatrics fellowship evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a geriatrics knowledge test.
• To create a reliable instrument for assessing geriatrics fellowship program effectiveness.
• To provide a tool for measuring knowledge acquisition in geriatrics trainees.

Main Methods:

• Cross-sectional validation studies (initial and replication) were conducted.
• A 31-item multiple-choice question (MCQ) test was developed from a 54-item pool.
• Selection of MCQs was based on content, item correlation, discrimination, and difficulty.

Main Results:

• The 31-item test demonstrated high reliability (Cronbach alpha = 0.83) and known-group validity.
• Scores increased progressively with higher levels of geriatrics training (P < .001).
• Replication studies confirmed score progression, with no floor or ceiling effects observed.

Conclusions:

• A 31-item geriatrics knowledge test is reliable and valid.
• The developed test is appropriate for evaluating geriatrics fellowship programs.
• This instrument can effectively assess the knowledge base of geriatrics trainees.