Advantages and Disadvantages of the Objective Structured Clinical Examination OSCE in Nursing Education: A Literature Review

Abstract

Background:The objective structured clinical examination is a valuable evaluation strategy to assess students' competencies in a range of skills. It has been increasingly integrated into nursing education. Purpose: The purpose of this literature review was to identify the advantages and disadvantages of using the objective structured clinical examination in nursing education. Design: A comprehensive search of the recent literature related to the objective structured clinical examination was undertaken. Methods:A review of literature published over the last 15 years on a wide variety of recent studies in nursing and related discipline in the field of objective structured clinical examination was performed.Results: Most studies indicated that the objective structured clinical examination was poorly addressed in nursing education particular in Arab academic nursing institutions. The objective structured clinical examination is an effective evaluation method to assess the students' competencies in performing clinical nursing tasks. Students and instructors showed a positive attitude toward using the objective structured clinical examination as an evaluation method. The advantages and disadvantages of using the objective structured clinical examination in nursing education are summarized. Discussion:Overall, it is evident that the objective structured clinical examination has been growing use in nursing education. The OSCEs have a variety of favorable advantages that argue implementation in nursing education, however, there are many obstacles to apply. Therefore, investigating the barriers to use this assessment method and developing appropriate interventions are recommended.

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“…For example, they are expensive, time consuming, and require manpower. Additionally, mistakes can be made due to illegible handwriting, and intensive examiner training is required ( 3 ). Further, adequate space for construction is also required ( 4 ) alongside significant resource support.…”

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“…Students undergoing training in nursing have to study new subjects, examinations, getting practical experience in caring for patients with various disease conditions as well as other challenges 3 . In nursing education, different teaching methods are adopted to help the students to gain knowledge, skills and attitudes relevant for competent nursing practice in a safe manner 4 .…”