Twelve tips to organise a mock OSCE

Abstract

The objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) is central to assessing clinical competence in undergraduate and postgraduate exams for medical and allied healthcare professions. A mock OSCE on the other hand is a simulation of the OSCE and a unique learning experience for the examinee. They benefit in a variety of ways; from enhancing their time management skills to receiving feedback that can improve their clinical skills. Unfortunately, opportunities to participate in simulated OSCEs remain limited. Reasons include difficulty in fulfilling organisational requirements and equipment-related costs. Mock OSCEs can be set up by undergraduate students or junior trainees for peers, without senior supervision or direct guidance. This article will discuss 12 tips regarding the arrangement of mock OSCEs to guide organisers, including accessing resources and establishing the content of the exam.

Keywords:

• OSCE
• undergraduate
• clinical collaborative/peer-to-peer
• methods

Disclosure statement

The authors have no conflicts of interest to report. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of this article.

Notes on contributors

Syed Gilani, MBChB, BSc, is a junior doctor in North West of England, UK.

Kishan Pankhania, BSc, is a final year medical student at the University of Manchester, UK.

Maneesha Aruketty, MRes, is a final year medical student at the University of Manchester, UK.

Farah Naeem, MRes, is a final year medical student at the University of Manchester, UK.

Abdulaziz Alkhayyat is a fourth year medical student at the University of Manchester, UK.

Usmaan Akhtar, MBChB, BSc, is a junior doctor in the North West of England, UK.

Muhammad Chaudhary, MBChB, is a junior doctor in the North West of England, UK.

Siddharth Sinha, MBChB, MRes, BSc, is a junior doctor in Central London, UK.