A student-oriented evaluation system is described and methods for oral examination (called team testing) evaluated. Based on qualitative and quantitative data, team testing seems to have merit. Faculty and students have repeatedly and overwhelmingly voted to continue the method. (LBH)

A study examined the likelihood that the oral examination's outcome would be the same regardless of which four of the approximately 100 examiners made up the examining team. Reliability was found to be high, but further steps are being taken to increase it. (Author/MSE)

The intraclass reliability of an oral examination administered during a clinical clerkship was analyzed in three ways: by traditional estimation, by faculty evaluation of taped examinations, and with use of a new evaluation form. A noticeable increase in reliability was found with the new form's use. (MSE)

The Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine has devised an evaluation system that not only provides the advantages of oral examination but also attempts to alleviate some of its disadvantages. The system uses oral examination to assess students' content knowledge. (MLW)

Two methods of assessing medical students' problem-solving skills were compared in actual use: a modified essay question and a structured oral examination based on it. The reliability and validity of each were found to be similar. (MSE)

Major issues related to evaluating student performance in clinical clerkships are reviewed, and the development of a clerkship evaluation system that attempts to deal with each issue is described. Three evaluation methods are utilized: multiple choice examination, oral examination, and ward ratings. (Author/MLW)