The Objective Structured Clinical Exam (OSCE): A Qualitative Study exploring the Healthcare Student's Experience

Abstract

This study explored the healthcare student’s experience of an OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Exam). The OSCE is a form of assessment in which the student demonstrates clinical skills, and underpinning knowledge, usually in simulated conditions. Historically, it has originated from medical education, and is now being adopted by other disciplines of healthcare education. Because the OSCE is a new experience for most students, it is important as educators, that we explore this assessment from the perspective of the student. A literature review revealed a paucity of research in this area. Hermeneutic phenomenology was used as this study’s underpinning methodology. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with students. Analysis revealed three main themes: (1) anxietyabout the OSCE, (2) preparation was a seen as a coping strategyand (3) simulation was a further cause of anxiety.Recommendations for future practice:are that students need to be supported appropriately. Preparation of students for an OSCE requires effective planningand simulation needs to be grounded in practice. This study concludes that students valued the OSCE as a worthwhile assessment. However there are major concerns for students, which need careful consideration by academic faculty developing this type of assessment.