Undertaking a high stakes virtual OSCE ("VOSCE") during Covid-19
Jenny Blythe1, Nimesh S A Patel2, Will Spiring1
1Queen Mary University of London, Barts and The London School of Medicine & Dentistry, Institute of Health Sciences Education, Centre for Medical Education, Whitechapel, London, E1 1AS, UK.
BMC Medical Education
|April 21, 2021
Summary
The virtual Objective Structured Clinical Examination (vOSCE) provided a viable remote assessment for final year medical students during the COVID-19 pandemic. This modified assessment allowed students to progress to graduation despite pandemic-related challenges.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education
- Digital Health
- Assessment Methods
Background:
- The COVID-19 pandemic necessitated emergency remote teaching and alternative high-stakes assessment methods in medical schools.
- This study details the implementation of a resit virtual OSCE (VOSCE) for final year medical students during pandemic lockdown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To adapt and implement a virtual OSCE (VOSCE) for final year medical students during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- To evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of the VOSCE as a remote assessment tool.
Main Methods:
- The pre-COVID examination blueprint was modified for a virtual format and content.
- Pre-training sessions were conducted for all participants, and standardized templates were developed.
- The VOSCE was delivered via an online digital platform.
Main Results:
- Nine students completed the two-part VOSCE (communication/clinical and practical procedures).
- The examination proceeded without technical issues across all participants (students, examiners, simulated patients, invigilators).
- Six students passed the VOSCE, enabling their progression to graduation.
Conclusions:
- The VOSCE proved to be a technically successful remote assessment method.
- Limitations exist in assessing practical procedures remotely, but the VOSCE enabled student progression.
- Developed training and templates offer a framework for future adoption or expansion of remote assessments.
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