An international study on the implementation of programmatic assessment: Understanding challenges and exploring...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Assessment Design
• Implementation Science

Background:

• Programmatic assessment optimizes learning and decision-making but faces implementation challenges.
• Key principles exist, yet practical application remains difficult across diverse settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To understand factors influencing programmatic assessment implementation.
• To explore how challenges in programmatic assessment are managed in different programs.

Main Methods:

• An explanatory multiple case study approach was used.
• Six medical programs with varying characteristics were selected.
• Data were collected through interviews and analyzed using inductive thematic analysis.

Main Results:

• Knowledge brokers and a strategic opportunistic approach were key to managing implementation complexity.
• Knowledge brokers translated evidence into practice, enabling real-time adaptation.
• Engaging in curriculum reform was critical for successful programmatic assessment implementation.

Conclusions:

• Strategic and opportunistic thinking, including adaptive planning and contextual awareness, are vital for programmatic assessment implementation.
• Further research should explore the impact of organizational assessment culture on implementation success.