Use of the blue MACS: acceptance by clinical instructors and self-reports of adherence.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to evaluate clinical instructors' (CIs') acceptance of and self-reported adherence to instructions for use of The Blue MACS (5th edition) for evaluating the clinical performance of physical therapist students.


METHODS
One hundred twenty-four usable survey instruments were returned by CIs.


RESULTS
Twenty-two items from The Blue MACS were collapsed into a score representing acceptance, and 10 items were collapsed into a score representing reported adherence to instructions. Ninety-six percent of the CIs surveyed expressed a positive opinion of the instrument. Ninety-eight percent of the CIs reported at least moderately consistent adherence to instructions.


CONCLUSIONS
The instrument was regarded as a useful tool, and most CIs reported using the instrument according to the instructions. A positive opinion of the clinical performance assessment instrument is desirable to facilitate its use by CIs. Consistent use by different CIs is desirable to promote accurate communication among students, CIs, and the educational institution.
Hrachovy
J
J
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, Lubbock 79430, USA.
Clopton
N
N
Baggett
K
K
Garber
T
T
Cantwell
J
J
Schreiber
J
J
D000328:Adult; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D001291:Attitude of Health Personnel; D002983:Clinical Competence; D004521:Educational Measurement; D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D006801:Humans; D026741:Physical Therapy Modalities / Q000193:education*; D012655:Self-Evaluation Programs; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D013663:Teaching; D013781:Texas