Predictive Validity of Comprehensive Basic Science Examination for Medical Students’ Academic Performance in Birjand University of Medical Sciences

Introduction: Basic science materials are important for medical students considering the understanding of clinical subjects and evaluation of academic performance in subsequent levels. The aim of this study was to assess predictive validity of comprehensive basic science examination for students’ academic performance in Birjand University Medical Sciences. Methods: In this descriptive cross-sectional study, 145 medical students that were admitted to Birjand University Medical Sciences within years 2002 to 2004 were selected through census. Information of these students including grades of comprehensive basic science examination (CBSE) and pre-internship examination (CPIE), average point grade (GPA) of clinical course and total average grade of students were collected from students’ files of records. Data was analyzed using t tests, ANOVA, and Pearson correlation coefficient. Results: Mean scores of comprehensive basic science examination (CBSE) and comprehensive pre-internship examination (CPIE) for medical students were 128.86±19.27 and 118.54±18.82 respectively. Mean of clinical course average grade and total grade point averages were 17.09±0.96 and 16.77±1.04 respectively. The difference between mean scores of two genders was not statistically significant. The Pearson correlation coefficient for comprehensive basic science examination grade with clinical course average, pre-internship examination grade, and total grade point averages was 0.56, 0.55 and 0.68 respectively. Conclusion: A moderate to high correlation between CBSE scores and scores of higher academic levels determined that the CBSE is a valid measurement to identify students at the risk of educational failure in subsequent academic levels.