Factors that may improve paediatric workplace-based assessments: an exploratory study

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Paediatric Training
• Workplace-Based Assessment

Background:

• Workplace-based assessments (WBAs) are crucial for paediatric training.
• Understanding trainee satisfaction and challenges in WBAs is essential for improving educational experiences.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate paediatric trainee satisfaction with current WBAs.
• To identify factors influencing the educational value of WBAs.
• To explore challenges and propose improvements for future WBAs.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative semistructured interviews were conducted with 15 paediatric trainees and 4 consultants.
• Interviews were analyzed iteratively using constant comparison.
• Constructivist Grounded Theory was employed to develop a framework for optimizing WBAs.

Main Results:

• Positive departmental culture, challenging case selection, direct observation/discussion, timely feedback, and prompt form completion significantly impact WBA educational value.
• Trainees reported varied experiences with these key components.

Conclusions:

• Many paediatric trainees' learning is negatively affected by suboptimal WBAs.
• Key areas for improvement include increasing assessment time, enhancing training for supervisors, and optimizing technology for WBAs.