DefinePK

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Standard setting in medical education is a vital process that defines the minimum competency levels necessary for medical professionalism. Various standard-setting methods are employed globally to ensure assessments accurately evaluate knowledge, skills, and clinical competence.This study aims to examine different methods for standard setting in medical education, analyze their theoretical foundations, practical applications, and evaluate their relevance to the Indian medical education context.
Materials and Methods: The study reviewed standard-setting methods categorized as absolute, relative, and hybrid approaches. Absolute methods (Angoff, Ebel, and Hofstee), relative methods (Norm-Referenced and Borderline Group Methods), and emerging trends including artificial intelligence-driven standard setting were analyzed. Global practices such as USMLE(United States Medical Licensing Examination), PLAB(Professional and Linguistic Assessments Board), andNEXT( National Exit Test )were compared with current Indian approaches.
Results: The analysis revealed that absolute methods establish fixed performance criteria based on expert judgment, while relative methods determine passing scores based on peer performance comparisons. Emerging technology-enhanced methodologies showed promise in enhancing objectivity and consistency. Significant challenges identified in the Indian context include faculty development needs, resource disparities, limited technical expertise, and the scale of implementation across diverse medical institutions.
Conclusion: The study emphasizes the need for dynamic, evidence-based standard-setting approaches that balance academic rigor with practical competency assessment. For Indian medical education, the path forward includes faculty development in assessment methodologies, technology-enhanced assessment systems, gradual transition from norm-referenced to criterion-referenced approaches, and development of India-specific models that maintain global standards while addressing local healthcare needs.