Peer assessment in the objective structured clinical examination: A scoping review

Abstract

Background: The objective structured clinical examination (OSCE), originally designed with experts assessing trainees’ competence, is more frequently employed with an element of peer assessment and feedback. Although peer assessment in higher education has been studied, its role in OSCEs has not reviewed.Aims: The aim of this study is to conduct a scoping review and explore the role of peer assessment and feedback in the OSCE.Methods: Electronic database and hand searching yielded 507 articles. Twenty-one full records were screened, of which 13 were included in the review. Two independent reviewers completed each step of the review.Results: Peer-based OSCEs are used to assess students’ accuracy in assessing OSCE performance and to promote learning. Peer examiners (PE) tend to award better global ratings and variable checklist ratings compared to faculty and provide high-quality feedback. Participating in these OSCEs is perceived as beneficial for learning.Conclusions: Peer assessment and feedback can be used to gauge PE reliability and promote learning. Teachers using these OSCEs must use methodology which fits their purpose. Competency-based education calls for diversification of assessment practices and asks how assessment impacts learning; the peer-based OSCE responds to these demands and will become an important practice in health professions education.