How Do Students Self-assess: Comparing Student Self-assessment to Faculty and Resident Evaluations in Clerkship Rotations

Abstract

Background: The literature suggests that medical student self-assessment often does not match the evaluations from faculty/residents but can improve over time and with practice. Additionally, there is literature that suggests women underestimate their abilities compared with their male counterparts. Results: Medical students at Wayne State University School of Medicine (WSUSOM) completed self-assessments using the same 11 competencies that they are evaluated by faculty/residents (evaluators). All students completed self-assessments. Overall medical students significantly overestimated their performance in all competencies compared with evaluators. Women assessed their ability underestimated their performance in 33% of competencies. Conclusion: Improving self-assessment may improve students’ abilities to become self-regulated life-long learners.