Comment: Paradigm shift in pre-reg exams

Education, assessment and examination are issues guaranteed to divide opinion. The move then, or should we say paradigm shift, in the way in which pre-reg students become optometrists cannot pass without comment.

From yesterday, students will undergo their practical examination testing through 14 five-minute test stations. This is the only mechanism, along with continual assessment in practice, by which newly qualifying optometrists will be measured on their handling of patients. Under this scheme, 14 randomly selected sample competency stations, manned by scripted actors, will cover the eight subjects. These are invigilated by examiners who stand and score, not comment, coach or cajole.