Conducting multiple mini-interviews in the midst of COVID-19 pandemic

ABSTRACT

Multiple mini-interview (MMI) is a ‘multiple sample-based’ approach comprising multiple focused encounters intended to access and assess a range of attributes in order to gain more objectively multiple impressions of an applicant’s interpersonal skills, thoughtfulness and general demeanour. It is designed to focus on four domains that are not considered to be comprehensive, but are considered to be vital for a successful career in the health sciences: critical thinking, ethical decision making, communication and knowledge of the healthcare system. Traditionally, the MMI is conducted face-to-face, but with COVID-19 pandemic and the implementation of social distancing measures, no onsite or campus teaching, banning of mass gatherings and cancellation of face-to-face interviews, Pengiran Anak Puteri Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah Institute of Health Sciences at Universiti Brunei Darussalam explored the feasibility of conducting MMI through virtual means. This report provides an account of our experience in conducting internet-MMI for the selection of new applicants into the August 2020 cohort of the Medicine programme. We also aimed to determine whether the scores derived from internet-MMI were reliable and equivalent to the scores derived from traditional MMI.

KEYWORDS:

• Multiple mini-interview
• internet
• selection
• medicine programme

Acknowledgments

We wish to thank interviewers from PAPRSB IHS for running of the internet-MMI, and the Dean of the PAPRSB IHS for her support.

Disclosure statement

The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.

Contributors

The modified MMI at PAPRSB IHS was conceived by KYYK, LC and FII, and discussed with NHM, HG, INZ and MAL. NHM, HG and INZ coordinated the modified MMI and provided important details concerning the coordination of the modified MMI. KYYK wrote the first draft, with all authors contributing to the manuscript revision.

Ethical approval

Nor Required.

Financial support

None.