Using videotaped objective structured clinical examination as a tool for reflection on communication skills

Abstract

Reflection is invaluable in the process of lifelong learning. In medical education literature, reflection has been used to address concrete clinical competencies, eg patient and procedural logs and surgical techniques. This paper reports on a pilot project engaging paediatric residents in reflective exercise on communication skills using the videotaped objective structured clinical examination (V-OSCE). The objective of the paper is to assess the exercise's feasibility and usefulness, as well as the learners' perception of the process and their ability to participate. The paper also shares lessons learned about instituting reflection on communication skills into the residency training curriculum, and discusses remaining challenges. Finally, the paper offers observations about the unique experience of international medical graduates as they engage in learner-centred assessment.