The Use of the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) with Video-taped Feedback Assessment as a Teaching Tool of Communication Skills

Abstract

PCF4 // Communication is an inevitable part of the doctor patient interaction. The outcome of a consultation can be adversely affected by poor communication skills. There is therefore increasing emphasis on the teaching and assessment of communication skills in medical schools. The aim of this paper was to assess the potential of implementing a multi-faceted, interactive teaching approach, including an OSCE with video-taped feedback assessment as a teaching tool of communication skills. // Final year medical students were taught using traditional methods. The students were then videotaped in various clinical scenarios with a simulated patient. OSCE checklists of competence in communication skills were used to assess performance at the stations and these were marked by an examiner. The videotapes were then reviewed and analysed by the student, their peers and their lecturer. After the feedback exercise students were asked to fill out a questionnaire. // The majority of students felt that the exercise helped them in their preparation for their final year examination. The videotaping of the scenario was not considered by most students to be a deterrent. Positive comments of continued use of the OSCE scenarios with video assessment feedback as an aid to learning communication skills were noted. // Conclusion: The implementation of a highly interactive teaching tool met with a favourable response by both students and tutors. // Paper ID 138