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Implementing Systematic Faculty Development to Support an EPA-Based Program of Assessment: Strategies, Outcomes, and
Megan J Bray1, Elizabeth B Bradley2, James R Martindale2
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Center for Medical Education Research and Scholarly Innovation, Office of Medical Education, University of Virginia School of Medicine, Charlottesville, Virginia, USA.
A systematic faculty development program successfully trained assessors to consistently evaluate medical students using Entrustable Professional Activities (EPAs). This improved the reliability of supervision ratings, fostering a new culture of assessment in medical education.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Implementation Science
- Competency-Based Assessment
Background:
- Implementing a novel competency-based assessment program requires a robust plan to measure and support successful execution.
- Entrustable Professional Activities (EPAs) necessitate structured training for assessors to adopt a new assessment paradigm.
- Existing rater training methods lack specific strategies for preparing assessors to judge the level of supervision needed for student tasks.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a systematic approach for preparing faculty and trainees to conduct EPA assessments for medical students.
- To enhance assessors' skills in direct observation, performance evaluation, and feedback delivery for clinical skill development.
- To foster a community of practice among assessors through collaborative learning and peer feedback.
Main Methods:
- Developed and implemented an institution-wide faculty development program focused on direct observation and EPA assessment criteria.
- Trained assessors (residents, faculty, Master Assessors) on applying performance expectations and a modified supervision rating scale.
- Utilized data visualizations and collaborative sessions to reinforce learning and build a community of practice.
Main Results:
- The systematic training approach led to consistent supervision ratings across different assessor types and clinical contexts.
- Attention to implementation drivers facilitated institution-wide adoption of the EPA assessment program.
- The faculty development program effectively prepared assessors to apply assessment standards consistently.
Conclusions:
- A systematic, flexible faculty development strategy using existing infrastructure can drive engagement in a new assessment culture.
- Interactive training sessions promote both learning and community building among assessors.
- A dedicated leadership group is crucial for sustaining changes in assessment culture and addressing stakeholder needs.
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