Trivializing assessment: A key factor in undermining the standards of medical education

Abstract

Examinations are an indispensable part of education both for students and teachers. The practical/clinical examination is an integral part of all summative assessments in medical training. In many departments throughout the country, the university examinations are annual rituals which are eagerly awaited by staff and faculty for various reasons ranging from breaking the monotony of the routine work to getting some financial benefits. With increasing amounts being paid as remuneration by universities, financial incentives become a major motivating factor for many faculty members to accept examinership. This brings into play numerous conflict of interest issues as universities prefer to select only “good” examiners, which translates as those who pass all students whether they deserve to pass or not. These “good” examiners close their eyes to all unethical practices such as leaking the spotters and questions that are asked, having a deal with internal examiners that they will award maximum marks for every student, accepting hospitality that is paid for by the students, and so on.

Keywords: Editorial