How the Summative Objective Structured Clinical Examination Can Support Learning in Post-graduate Ophthalmology...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Ophthalmology Training
• Competency Assessment

Background:

• Objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) is a performance-based assessment tool for evaluating medical competencies.
• OSCE is currently used for assessing and training post-graduate ophthalmology doctors in Nigeria.
• Existing OSCE practices may require adaptation to better support learning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore adaptations of OSCE to support learning in Nigerian post-graduate ophthalmology programs.
• To balance 'assessment of' learning with 'assessment for' learning within the OSCE framework.
• To leverage current practices and evidence-based pedagogy for OSCE modification.

Main Methods:

• Review of current OSCE practices in Nigerian post-graduate ophthalmology.
• Analysis of evidence-based pedagogical approaches for assessment.
• Description of initiatives to modify the existing OSCE method.

Main Results:

• Identified potential modifications to the OSCE format.
• Proposed strategies to integrate 'assessment for learning' principles.
• Highlighted the importance of balancing summative and formative assessment aspects.

Conclusions:

• OSCE can be adapted to foster learning, not just assessment, in ophthalmology residency.
• Modifications are crucial for aligning OSCE with educational goals in Nigeria.
• Balancing assessment of and for learning enhances resident competency development.