Objective Structured Practical Examination as a Learning and Evaluation Tool for Biochemistry- First Experience

Abstract

BACKGROUND Assessment plays an important role in helping learners identify their own learning needs. The objective structured practical examination assesses practical skills in an objective and structured manner with direct observation of the students' performance during planned clinical test. The aim of the study is to evaluate OSPE as a method of learning and formative assessment to the practical skill and to explore faculty perception of OSPE as a learning and assessment tool. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 98 students of first year MBBS student admitted for 2015-16 batch of Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences, Imphal, were the subjects for the study. Day one-Group A (1-50) students were evaluated by OSPE method of assessment. Day two-Group B (51-98) were evaluated by standard practical examination. To avoid examiners Bias on Day 3-Group C (51-98) who were evaluated by SPE were evaluated by OSPE with minor variations. Group A underwent OSPE. Questionnaire was given to students after the assessment on the fourth day to get the feedback.