An evaluation of observed structural clinical examinations.

This article describes a mixed methods study of the experience of pre- and post-registration child health nursing students taking observed structured clinical examinations (OSCEs). Effectiveness of OSCEs as learning, teaching and assessment strategies in preparing for practice was assessed by questionnaire. The results were positive among both groups. However, it was less clear among the post-registration students whether OSCEs suited their acquired learning styles or increased students' confidence in their clinical skills.