Emergency medicine residents’ attitudes and opinions of in-training exam preparation

Figures & data

Table 1 Guide used in interviews

1. How do you feel about the in-training exam?

2. Discuss the importance of the in-training exam and preparing for it.

3. What methods have you used in the past to prepare for the exam? Why?

4. What is important to you when choosing a method for exam preparation?

5. What would be your ideal method of preparation for the in-training exam?

Table 2 Thematic content of attitudes and opinions regarding the in-training exam

Major theme	Sub-theme	Frequency
Value examination		21
	Motivation to study	3
	Provide assessment of current knowledge/deficiencies	9
	Monitor progression over training years	3
	Compare results to classmates/peers	2
	Improved familiarity with ABEM exam	5
Weaknesses of exam		2
	Score reporting not immediate	1
	No ability to review questions	1

Abbreviation: ABEM, American Board of Emergency Medicine.

Table 3 Thematic content of opinions regarding in-training exam preparation

Major theme	Sub-theme	Frequency
Question format optimal		20
	Similar to ABEM format	4
	Patient centered/clinically relevant	2
	Answers provide enough detail	5
	Provides assessment of strengths/weaknesses	1
	Text-based learning less valuable	4
Practical aspects important		11
	Portable	3
	User-friendly	3
	Affordable	1
	Ability to set pace, small increments, affect method selection	4
Preparation timing		8
	Closer to ABEM exam more preparation	4
	Study weeks/months before exam	4
Preparation should be relevant		7
	To exam performance	5
	To clinical practice	2
Peer/fellow resident recommendations highly regarded	No sub-themes	6
Longitudinal study ideal	No sub-themes	2

Abbreviation: ABEM, American Board of Emergency Medicine.