Utility of Virtual Platform for Conducting Practical Examination for Medical Students During Covid Times: A Prospective Study from Gynaecology Department

Abstract

Background As the novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) continues its pandemic surge globally along with its social distancing norms , the physical conduction of practical examinations for medical graduates and postgraduates has become difficult. Software-based systems and social media platforms could provide alternatives for ensuring regular medical education and exam-oriented assessments. In this context, we evaluated our own experience with virtual conduction of semester practical exams for medical graduates. Material and Methods This prospective study was conducted in Gynaecology and Obstetrics department. We employed live streaming educational video conferencing software for virtual consultation between medical students, patients (case presentations), internal and external examiners. The outcomes were evaluated in terms of conduction of various components of practical examination—Viva, case presentations, instruments, slides, specimen examination. Statistical analysis was performed by descriptive statistics through Microsoft Excel sheet. Results Virtual conduction examination/evaluation was performed on 150 medical students by examiners from a distant location. No problems occurred except few short duration (less than 5 min) interruptions due to internet connectivity issues. 125/150 (83.5%) of medical students and all examiners (2 internal and 2 external) expressed satisfaction with virtual medical evaluation. Conclusions 83.5% of medical students and all examiners expressed satisfaction with virtual medical evaluation during this COVID pandemic. Our findings suggest that virtual conduction of practical annual medical exams through virtual video conferencing platform appears to be an optimal alternative during COVID pandemic.

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Virtual Practical Examination for Student Nurse Educators in Health Sciences Education during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Narrative Review

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Ethical issues and proposed solutions in conducting practical assessment of medical students involving patients

“…Alternative methods for conducting practical assessments, such as simulation models, virtual reality, or standardised patients (trained individuals to portray specific medical scenarios), can be explored [23]. This can involve the evaluation of the clinical skills of a student through realtime observation in outpatient settings by utilising clinical vignettes, artificial intelligence [24], or simulation-based or virtual platforms [25].…”