Competency Testing Using a Novel Eye Tracking Device

Abstract

Assessment and evaluation metrics currently rely upon interpretation of observed performance or end points by an ‘expert’ observer. Such metrics are subject to bias since they rely upon the traditional medical education model of ‘see one, do one, teach one’. The Institute of Medicine's Report and the Flexner Report have demanded improvements in education metrics as a means to improve patient safety. Additionally, advancements in adult learning methods are challenging traditional medical education measures. Educators are faced with the daunting task of developing rubrics for competency testing that are currently limited by judgment and interpretation bias. Medical education is demanding learner‐centered metrics to reflect quantitative and qualitative measures to document competency. Using a novel eye tracking system, educators now have the ability to know how their learners think. The system can track the focus of the learner during task performance. The eye tracking system demonstrates a learner‐centered measuring tool capable of identifying deficiencies in task performance. The device achieves the goal of timely and direct feedback of performance metrics based on the learner's perspective. Employment of the eye tracking system in simulation education may identify mastery and retention deficits before compliance and quality improvement issues develop into patient safety concerns.