A pilot trial of objective structured practical examinations (OSPEs) in non-vocational science-based degrees

There is a need for more teaching innovations targeting the application of knowledge in non-vocational basic science degrees to prepare students for a diverse workforce. Our study showcases a pilot of a four-station objective structured practical examination (OSPE) designed to prepare students for the workforce. We used Kane’s Validity Framework to test the validity of the OSPE and employed a convergent mixed-methods design with 23 students and four examiners. Relaying new drug information to a medical practitioner (no fails) proved to be an easier task than explaining the clinical implications of a drug to a medication professional, with 61.5% in the Master’s student cohort and 30% of the Bachelor cohort failing this station. Post-OSPE focus group data revealed that participants appreciate the need for OSPEs in non-vocational degrees, stating that conversational mode of delivery is a skill they rarely have the opportunity to get practice or receive feedback on, and is vital for the workforce.