A pilot study of the use of objective structural clinical examinations for the assessment of ophthalmology education.

PURPOSE A pilot study was carried out to evaluate the practicality, reliability, and validity of an objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) for assessing the clinical skills and abilities of specialists in ophthalmology. METHODS Ten unfolded OSCE style, criterion referenced questions were asked to nine candidates to assess their clinical skills and abilities, as opposed to subject knowledge. Candidate and assessor reactions to the examination process were monitored and analyzed using participant observation and questionnaires administered immediately after the event. Relevant statistical techniques were applied to the results. RESULTS A total of 89% of candidates passed the examination, with the pass boundary set at 70%. Candidates revealed themselves more successful in meeting clinical skill criteria (mean 77%) than clinical ability criteria (mean 72%). Candidates, assessors, and observers all expressed the view that the OSCE pilot had been a successful way of assessing clinical skills and abilities. CONCLUSIONS OSCE style assessment is an effective and efficient means of assessing skills and abilities in clinical ophthalmology education.