Twelve tips for the use of mobile technologies for work based assessment

Abstract

There is increasing interest in the use of mobile technologies (including personal digital assistants (PDAs) and mobile phones) for work based assessment. These devices can offer data collection anytime and anyplace but they can also enhance the assessment process by collecting a variety of multimedia. The experience of using mobile technologies for work based assessment in a range of professions has highlighted several important aspects that need to be considered. It is essential that the choice of technology is determined by the overall assessment strategy. Important technology aspects include the choice of device and the method of data collection and transfer. An initial pilot scheme is recommended before widespread adoption so that institutional cultural and information technology (IT) barriers can be identified and overcome.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

John Sandars

JOHN SANDARS MD MSc FRCGP MRCP is Senior Lecturer in Community Based Education and Academic lead for e-learning in the Medical Education Unit in the School of Medicine at the University of Leeds.

Christine Dearnley

CHRISTINE DEARNLEY SRN PhD is a Learning & Teaching Fellow in the School of Health Studies at the University of Bradford and is Chair of the ALPS e-valuation group.