Contributing to Healthy Communities Current/Best Practices Abstract Recruiting|Admissions

Situational Judgment Testing Using CASPer: Predicting Commitment to Underserved Medicine

Session
W15 - Casper (tm) in Use
Category
Contributing to Healthy Communities
Intended Audience Track
Recruiting|Admissions
Presentation Type
Current/Best Practices Abstract
Authors
Presenting
James R Keene, DO, PNWU-COM

Poster Rating
 | 

Abstract

In this session, Admissions decisions into osteopathic medical schools are typically based heavily on applicants’ cognitive metrics (MCAT, academic grades) and less so on their non-cognitive abilities (empathy, communication skills, professionalism). However, growing concerns about the bedside manners of physicians have led programs to also evaluate applicants’ personal and professional characteristics at the time of admission. Unfortunately, many popular tools, such as personal statements and letters of recommendation, do a poor job in assessing a candidate’s non-cognitive abilities, as they tend to produce highly subjective and unreliable information. Pacific Northwest University of Health Sciences College of Osteopathic Medicine (PNWU-COM) employs a screening system focusing on applicants meeting the university’s mission related to rural and underserved populations. Applicants selected for interview undergo extensive evaluation based on mission fit, cognitive metrics, and interview scores on non-cognitive abilities. Situational Judgment Testing using CASPer was incorporated into the 2018-2019 admissions cycle in an attempt to improve the selection process. As CASPer is fairly new, many programs are wary about introducing such an assessment into their admissions process without empirical evidence. In thispresentation, a case study from PNWU-COM illustrates how CASPer was incorporatedinto the admissions process.
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