title: An evaluation of the multiple mini-interview as a selection tool for dental students.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  This research evaluated the mutliple mini-interview (MMI) process as part of the admissions procedure for a dental school.
  
  
  METHODS
  The thematic analysis of a paper-based questionnaire.
  
  
  METHODS
  Following screening an MMI was arranged for 190 candidates applying to study dentistry with written feedback obtained from candidates and interviewers.
  
  
  RESULTS
  A 100% response rate to the paper-based questionnaire was achieved for candidates and a 90% response rate was obtained from interviewers. With specific reference to how candidates perceived their performance, 127 (67.9%) felt they had performed well with 24 (19.3%) unsure and 36 (12.8%) saying their performance was not ideal. Candidates generally thought that they had prepared as well as they could have done for the MMIs and 146 (77.2%) thought that they had done enough at interview to merit being offered a place to study dentistry. The MMI experience was considered favourable and from 137 written comments received by candidates 39 were most positive with reference to the MMIs. A thematic analysis of the comments identified a number of emergent themes including lack of control, anxiety and nervousness, preparedness and comparisons with conventional interviews.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The MMI appears to be useful in the selection of dental students.
authors.affiliation: University of Cardiff, Applied Dental Research and Public Health, Dental Hospital, Heath Park, Cardiff, CF14 4XY. mcandrew@cf.ac.uk
authors.forename: R
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: McAndrew
authors.forename: J
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Ellis
mesh_terms: D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007407:Interviews as Topic / Q000379:methods*; D008297:Male; D012570:School Admission Criteria; D012575:Schools, Dental / Q000458:organization & administration*; D013335:Students, Dental; D011795:Surveys and Questionnaires; D006113:United Kingdom