Workplace Based Assessments In Psychiatry

Significant changes were made to the way psychiatric trainees' skills are assessed for the MRCPsych examinations in 2007. Much teaching, learning and assessment now occurs in the workplace in real clinical situations, with the emphasis being on outcome as reflected by the performance of the doctor. This book outlines the workplace-based assessments (WPBAs) that are required by the current competency-based psychiatry curriculum. It has been updated, taking into account the experience gained since these assessments began. The authors explore the theory and practice of different assessment methods such as case-based discussion, long-case evaluation and directly observed practice, changes in the MRCPsych examinations and multi-source feedback. The second edition includes new chapters on Direct Observation of Non-Clinical Skills (DONCS), educational supervisor reports, the new online portfolio for trainees, workplace-based assessments in psychotherapy and views from trainees themselves. This book is essential reading for psychiatric trainers and trainees.

A new competency-based curriculum in psychiatry, approved by PMETB, will come into place in August 2007. This requires that far more teaching, learning and assessment will occur in the workplace in real clinical time and real situations. This book will be a general introduction to the workplace based assessments that are to accompany the new curriculum. It will explore how the best potential way to collect data on trainees' performance is the personal witnessing of patient interactions over a period of time. The book will outline the theory and practice behind various assessments, such as case-based discussions, long-case and short-case evaluations, patient satisfaction, directly observed practice and multi-source feedback. In addition to examples, rating schedules which the College is currently piloting, will be included.