Objectively structured practical examination for first year physiotherapy: 3 years longitudinal study

Abstract

: With proven advantage of OSPE over traditional examination, its time to implement on a routine basis as a form of assessment of psychomotor skills in Physiotherapy. This study reports the implementation of OSPE at our institute since last 3 years and still continued. : OSPE was introduced in 2021 for formative assessment planned for only one year. However, with the benefit observed for examiners and students, it was continued for next 2 years. 10 stations were prepared for assessment by 10 examiners for first year of Physiotherapy students. Performance was assessed using the checklist. Students and examiners were invited to share their feedback through the survey form. : There was a consistent positive response about the conduct of this method of assessment for all 3 years from students and examiners (more than 90%). Equal percentage reported that the method eliminates examiner bias to the great extent and allowed all psychomotor skills to be assessed during the examination (92%). : Consistent Positive response over 3 years supports the use of OSPE as a form of assessment of psychomotor skill of Physiotherapy students.