Utility of mini-peer assessment tool as a formative assessment tool for the postgraduate trainees from dental faculty in specialty of prosthodontics and crown and bridge

Abstract

Background: Mini-peer assessment tool (PAT), a multisource feedback tool, provides reliable information on a trainee doctor's performance in the areas of communication skills and humanitarian ethics. This tool is not utilized in the Faculty of Dentistry's postgraduate program in the subject of prosthodontics for formative assessment. Materials and Methods: This qualitative study was undertaken to determine the usability of the mini-PAT as a formative assessment instrument for postgraduate trainees in the specialty of prosthodontics. The study was performed using a purposive sampling method and mini-PAT questionnaire to evaluate all the residents who consented to participate in the study at two-time intervals. Feedback obtained from the assessors was shared with every postgraduate trainee to encourage them toward constructive professional development. Results: Statistic was done using Pearson's Chi-square test with Fisher's exact test to discover the relationship between two categorical variables. The mean scores of seven criteria of the mini-PAT before and after intervention were compared. Overall ratings demonstrated significant improvement (P < 0.001) after the intervention. Conclusions: Mini-PAT was found to be a useful formative assessment tool for postgraduate trainees from dental faculty in the specialty of prosthodontics.