What types of assessment will be on my degree?

OSCE - Observed Structured Clinical Examination

This is an assessment where students are given a high-fidelity clinical scenario and are asked to demonstrate their skills which are relevant to that module learning. It is a practical exam commonly used in healthcare courses to test clinical and communication skills in a safe, structured way.

OSCE broken down

· Objective – You are marked using a clear checklist or marking scheme (OSCE sheet and Rubric). Everyone is assessed in the same way.

· Structured – The exam follows a set format with timed stations or station.

· Clinical Examination – You demonstrate healthcare skills in realistic clinical scenarios.

How Does an OSCE Work?

An OSCE will usually last 5–15 minutes, and will test one specific skill, or set of skills. You will have an examiner, or two who will observe and mark your performance.

Often, you will interact with:

· A simulated patient (an actor who will behave like a real patient)

· A mannequin (for clinical skills)

· An examiner with a marking checklist

Why Are OSCEs Used?

Healthcare professionals need more than just theoretical knowledge. Students must show they can:

· Communicate clearly and compassionately

· Perform clinical skills safely

· Make decisions under time pressure

· Follow professional standards

OSCEs test these practical skills in a controlled and fair way.

Are OSCEs Stressful?

Many students find OSCEs nerve-wracking because:

· They are timed

· Students are observed closely

· Students move quickly between tasks

However, universities provide practice sessions so you can prepare.

VIVA assessment

Often just called a “viva”- is a type of oral examination. The word viva comes from the Latin term “viva voce,” which means “by live voice.” In simple terms, it is a spoken exam where you answer questions out loud instead of writing them down. This is often combined with an OSCE.

What Happens in a VIVA?

In a viva:

· You sit with one or more examiners

· They ask you questions about a topic

· You explain your answers verbally

· They may ask follow-up questions

It is common for a VIVA to follow and OSCE

The questions will depend on your course and level.

Why Are VIVAs Used?

Healthcare professionals must be able to:

· Think clearly under pressure

· Explain decisions confidently

· Justify their clinical reasoning

· Communicate professionally

A viva tests your understanding, not just memorisation. Examiners want to see whether you truly understand the topic and can apply knowledge in real-life situations.

Are VIVAs Stressful?

Many students find vivas intimidating because:

· You are speaking directly to examiners

· There is no time to write and rethink answers

· You cannot rely on notes (in most cases)

However, with preparation and practice, many students find vivas become easier and even enjoyable.

Eportfolio (electronic portfolio) or PebblePad

This is a digital record of your learning and development during clinical placements.

In healthcare courses, it is used to show that you are developing the knowledge, skills, and professional behaviours required to become a safe practitioner.

What Is an E-Portfolio?

An e-portfolio is an online platform where you collect evidence of your progress during placement.

Think of it as:

· A learning diary

· A skills tracker

· A professional development record

· Proof that you are meeting required standards

It replaces (or updates) the old paper practice assessment documents.

What Do You Put in an E-Portfolio?

Typical contents include:

Skills Assessments

· Records of clinical skills you have practised

· Sign-offs from supervisors confirming competence

Reflective Writing

· Reflections on patient care experiences

· What went well

· What you would improve next time

· What you learned

Feedback

· Comments from clinical supervisors

· Mid-placement and final reviews

· Action plans for improvement

Professional Development

· Evidence of meeting professional standards

· Learning objectives

· Training sessions completed

How Is It Assessed?

Your e-portfolio is usually assessed by:

· Your practice supervisor (on placement)

· An academic assessor (from the university)

They look at:

· Whether required competencies are achieved

· Quality of reflections

· Professional conduct

· Progress across the placement

· Engagement with feedback

You must normally pass all of your placement and portfolio to progress to the next year.

Why Are E-Portfolios Used?

Healthcare education is not just about exams - it is about becoming a safe professional.

E-portfolios help ensure that students:

· Develop real-world clinical skills

· Reflect on experiences

· Improve through feedback

· Meet professional body standards

· Take responsibility for their learning

They encourage continuous development, not just one-off performance like an exam.