Opportunities for Formative Assessment Across Health Professions Education Settings

Session Type: Symposium

Abstract

Health professional education assessment has historically relied on summative knowledge. However, assessments that can be used for formative purposes—identifying strengths, knowledge gaps, and guidance on how to reach goals—are needed. We will present four papers that address the perceptions of formative assessment in health professional education and credentialing, and the challenges and benefits. Specific examples of using assessment formatively to improve learning will be provided to illustrate successful learning. These papers will add to the literature on how formative assessment can be practicable in health professional education. We will discuss how assessments can be used for dual purposes—formative and summative. Theoretical knowledge and practical implications will be meaningfully connected to enhance health professional instruction and assessment.

Sub Unit

• Division I - Education in the Professions

Chair

• Carol A. Morrison, National Board of Medical Examiners

Papers

• Perceptions of Formative Assessment in Health Professional Educational Settings - Sarah Anne Marrs, Virginia Commonwealth University; Beverly Ann Fitzpatrick, Memorial University

• Formative Assessment in a Credentialing Context - Amanda Clauser, National Board of Medical Examiners; Ying Du, American Board of Pediatrics; Cathleen Koenig, American Board of Pediatrics

• Using Formative Assessment in a Medical Professional Recertification Program - Cathleen Koenig, American Board of Pediatrics; Ying Du, American Board of Pediatrics; Amanda Clauser, National Board of Medical Examiners

• Applying Seamless Formative Assessment in Health Professional Education - Beverly Ann Fitzpatrick, Memorial University; Sarah Anne Marrs, Virginia Commonwealth University

Discussant

• Ronald M. Cervero, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences