Predictive validity of multiple mini interview scores for future academic and clinical placement performance in physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech and language therapy programmes

Abstract

Background/aims Limited research exists on the predictive validity of multiple mini interviews when used during the selection process for physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech and language therapy programmes. Traditional interviews were replaced by multiple mini interviews in the selection process for these three undergraduate programmes in one UK university. The purpose of secondary data analysis was to determine whether multiple mini interviews can predict academic and clinical placement performance during the first and second year of study. Methods Secondary data analysis was performed using the admissions data from 169 students. Data analysed comprised predictors (entry tariff, age and multiple mini interview scores) and outcomes (academic and placement achievement in years 1 and 2 over a period of 2 years from 2014 to 2016). Results Multiple standard regression analyses revealed that, overall, multiple mini interview score was not a significant predictor of academic achievement or clinical placement performance in years 1 and 2 for any of the three professions. Pearson's correlations indicated that age and entry tariff were frequently and significantly correlated with academic achievements for all cohorts. Conclusions Performance in the multiple mini interview is not a predictor of academic achievement or clinical placement performance in this specific cohort of students. Entry tariff showed a significant correlation with academic achievement. Additional studies with larger cohorts are recommended.