Adapting Objective Structured Practical Examinations (OSPE’s) to assess laboratory science skills

Objective Structured Practical Examination (OSPE) assessments of theoretical, practical and problem-solving skills at multiple stations are used in clinical assessment to examine practical skills. Although medical science disciplines rarely use this successful assessment style, we have adapted this format to formally examine a wide range of communication and science laboratory practical skills to prepare students for research projects and enhance employability. We have steadily expanded the range of skills being assessed by varying the stations used. This session will introduce the concepts involved and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of setting up and delivering structured practical exams for physiology courses.