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Comparative validity of three simulation platforms for objective assessment of otoscopy skills
Oloruntobi Rotimi1, Adam Haymes1, Isobel Dodds1
1ENT Department, Brighton and Sussex University Hospital Trust, Brighton, UK.
Objectives:
To assess the face, construct and content validity of three different platforms for otoscopy skills assessment, using a traditional otoscope with manikin, digital otoscope (Tympahealth) with manikin, and traditional otoscope with a low-cost model ear (SimEar).
Design:
Prospective mixed methods study.
Setting:
Tertiary hospital.
Participants:
Postgraduate trainees and expert assessors.
Main Outcome Measures:
Face and Content validity based on expert assessor ranking on each model and their feedback from semi-structured interviews. Construct validity based on Objective Structured Clinical Examination scores.
Results:
Each platform differed in face, construct and content validity scores, with no one platform consistently outperforming others. Three main themes were identified during thematic analysis of expert assessor interviews: ability to assess what is seen, anatomical reality, and ease of use. The low-cost model showed greatest potential, where modification to include a silicone ear could lead to high validity with marginal increase in cost.
Conclusion:
Several modalities for assessing otoscopy skills exist, each with advantages and disadvantages. Modifications to a low-cost model, for use with either a traditional or digital otoscope, could prove to be the best model.
