Your performance will be continuously assessed throughout each module of the course in order to construct a profile of your strengths and weaknesses. Advice will be given on those areas where further practice is needed. On the following page you will find a sample assessment sheet that covers all three modules of the course, i.e. open surgery, trauma and orthopaedics and minimal access surgery. This assessment seeks to concentrate on the 'generic' skills listed under each course module and a score will be given at the end of each half day session for each of the generic skills. These gradings are:
3 - no errors observed
2 - occasional errors but corrected by participant
1 - occasional errors left uncorrected by participant
0 - frequent errors and/or persistently unsafe performance
The scores will signify how you have performed and, where a module consists of more than one half day, will demonstrate how your performance of the generic skills has improved during the module. An overall performance statement will be recorded at the end of each module in the box along with the instructor's signature. Any score of 0, or four or more scores of 1 (for the generic skills assessed) will result in an unsatisfactory performance for that module. It is expected that the great majority of participants will receive results in the satisfactory category. Trainees with such results will receive a certificate of completion after the end of the course. Only participants who have an overall statement of unsatisfactory performance in either the open surgery module or any two modules of the course as a whole will need to repeat the three-day programme - however, we do not anticipate that many trainees will fall into this category.
One of the most important aspects of the assessment is the feedback between instructors and participants. This has proved most valuable in previous courses and participants have greatly appreciated any constructive criticism that helps them improve their technique. The comments will be both verbal and written in the feedback section of the assessment form. In summary, we hope you will look upon this activity as another way in which to build upon the skills you already possess and not as an ordeal to be endured. The assessment process will also be used to measure the effectiveness of the teaching and to continually improve the course.
Name of participant:
Centre:
Course dates:
