Fit for purpose: assessments undergraduate health degrees

Abstract or Summary

I examine some of the current international practises in summative assessment in undergraduate health care degrees. In particular I will observe the assessments linked to clinical modules (papers). Midwifery education is my focus as that is the subject I teach. The different categories of possible practice assessments will be considered, by way of examining the literature surrounding some of these assessments. Whilst examining the literature I firstly scrutinise assessment methods used by other academic institutions, in health care programs, and evaluate the potential risks and benefits to learning and the development of sustained competence. Secondly I consider the assessment modes my own institution uses and lastly consider how assessment practises could be strengthened.