Clinical performance assessment and interactive video teleconferencing: an iterative exploration.

ABSTRACT

BACKGROUND: The direct observation of students in authentic settings by faculty provides valuable feedback on performance and helps ensure mastery of clinical skills. DESCRIPTION We explored the use of interactive video technology (IVT) as a way of involving community preceptors as raters on a clinical performance exam for 3rd-year students after their family medicine clerkship. Family medicine preceptors, from locations in their communities, observed students on campus conduct interviews and physical exams of standardized patients and then interacted with them during their case presentations. EVALUATION We chose an action research approach to this project and conducted four independent trials. Interviews and observations were structured around three areas of concern human, technical, and institutional. CONCLUSIONS: We feel confident in recommending IVT as a viable option for involving community preceptors in high-stakes testing and with other campus-based activities. We also report on the value of IVT in faculty development activities.