The OSCE as a tool for the evaluation of a Pre-Departure Training program: A pilot study

Authors

  • Ammara Ghumman Western University, Canada
  • Audrey Tran Western University, Canada
  • Christopher Foster Western University, Canada
  • Neil Arya Western University, Canada

Abstract

Objective: As the number of medical students completing international electives increases, so does the need for appropriate pre-departure training (PDT) programs. Though PDT programs are currently available across Canada, little information is available on program effectiveness.


Methods and Results: Five conference attendees completed a video-recorded five-station OSCE the day before and after the 2012 PDT conference. Results showed improvement in the areas of travel safety (+ 22%, p < 0.01) and cultural competency (+19%, p < 0.01) stations.

Conclusions: Our pilot study observed variable OSCE performance following PDT. Following a review of the literature addressing the use of the OSCE methodology, we conclude that this methodology has great future potential in global health training.

Published

2013-09-23

Issue

Vol. 5 No. 1 (2013): MENTAL HEALTH AND ADDICTION

Section

Commentaries