DefinePK

Abstract

Currently, MCQs is perhaps the most widely used mode of testing that is reliable, valid1 and can test application of basic sciences for understanding of clinical problems. The dilemma to construct MCQ tests that validly reflect individual performance in making (a doctor?) is ever increasing especially with emphasis of medical educationists on relevance of instruction and assessment. Generalizability analyses indicate that performance in one topic area does not predict performance in other areas very well.2 To summarise, most authors believe that a good test question should address important content and also be well structured. Therefore, to evaluate skills in medical students, it is preferable to sample more presenting complaints rather than to sample more items within a small number of presenting complaints. The next phase of this discussion will be directed at determining whether there are benefits to using the current multiple choice formats.