Examiner perceptions of a portfolio assessment process.
BACKGROUND
The portfolio assessment process is important for assessing learner achievement.


OBJECTIVE
To study examiner perceptions of Dundee Medical School's portfolio assessment process, in years 4 and 5 of the 5-year curriculum, in relation to: outcomes as a framework for the portfolio assessment process; portfolio content; portfolio assessment process; end points of the portfolio assessment process; appropriateness of the two part final exam format and examiner training.


METHODS
A questionnaire containing statements and open questions was used to obtain examiner feedback. Responses to each statement were compared over 3 years: 1999, 2000 and 2003.


RESULTS
Response rates were 100%, 88% and 61% in 1999, 2002 and 2003, respectively. Examiners were positive about the ability of institutionally set learning outcomes (Dundee 12 exit learning outcomes) to provide a framework for the portfolio assessment process. They found difficulties, however, with the volume of portfolio content and the time allocated to assess it. Agreeing a grade for each learning outcome for the candidate with their co-examiner did not present difficulties. The comprehensive, holistic picture of the candidate provided by the portfolio assessment process was perceived to be one of its strengths. Examiners were supportive of the final examination format, and were satisfied with their briefing about the process.


CONCLUSIONS
The 12 exit learning outcomes of Dundee curriculum provide an appropriate framework for the portfolio assessment process, but the content of the portfolio requires fine-tuning particularly with regard to quantity. Time allocated to examiners for the portfolio assessment process needs to be balanced against practicability. The holistic picture of the candidate provided by the process was one of its strengths.
Davis
Margery H
MH
University of Dundee, UK.
Ponnamperuma
Gominda G
GG
D001290:Attitude; D004504:Education, Medical, Undergraduate / Q000379:methods*; D004521:Educational Measurement / Q000379:methods*; D005180:Faculty, Medical; D006801:Humans; D013188:Sri Lanka; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires