The development of competency‐based assessment for the profession of optometry

Abstract

Background: In 1993, the Australian Optometrical Association developed competency standards for entry-level to the profession.1 These competencies were the basis for the development of an assessment process to determine suitability for entry to the profession. Methods: The competency standards were ranked in order of importance for assessment. Methods were developed to assess the competencies with a number of methods used to assess more highly ranked competencies. A pilot examination was conducted to test the process. Passes were awarded if the performance of the candidate was suitable for entry-level to the profession. Results: The final examination consisted of: Two written papers (six hours), containing a number of case histories and requiring short answers, were used to assess knowledge in basic and clinical science and application of this knowledge clinically. A ‘diagnosis and management’ paper (two hours), containing photographic information accompanied by case histories, was used to assess ability to interpret information and offer diagnoses and management options. Skills station assessment (three and one-half hours) was used to assess the performance of 21 clinical skills. Clinical examinations were used to assess the performance during a full optometric examination, with the interpretation of results and determination of management plans.