We have launched the pilot phase of our new assessment system for the UWSOM Patient Care Phase required clerkships. Our new system aims to better align educational practices with patient needs and competencies in ongoing medical education and to improve transparency and fairness within the current tiered grading system.
WBA Pilot: 6-Week Check-In
We’re six weeks into the launch of the pilot, in which we have implemented WBAs across all Patient Care Phase required clerkships. Early data show strong student engagement, broad faculty participation, and helpful patterns that are informing next steps. We had over 2,000 WBAs submitted during the first 6 weeks. Thank you to the many preceptors who’ve helped make this pilot possible in busy clinical environments!
What Are Students Being Assessed On?
Students are expected to complete WBAs across 6 required clinical activities, with a 7th activity available to them to complete when they are in the operating room (OR).
- History taking
- Physical exam
- Differential diagnosis
- Recommending tests
- Interpreting tests
- Oral presentation
- Prepare effectively for operative cases
Support for Faculty
Watch the WBA Video Walkthrough for a short, animated video that highlights key aspects of changes and provides guidance on how to complete a WBA.
Visit the COMPASS webpage for all the details on the WBA Pilot, including requirements, submission process, and step-by-step guidance. Check out the Clerkship Toolkit for guides on completing and submitting WBAs and additional resources related to the WBA Pilot.
Thank you for being part of this important shift toward more transparent, formative clinical assessment!