The questions can be integrated or related to clinical situations that may come from every subject taught in semesters 9 and 11/12, respectively. The modified OSCE exam in semester 12 may test knowledge and skills taught during all earlier semesters
Execution
The exam consists of 20–25 stations, divided into OSCE stations, PC-based tasks and written tasks. All candidates rotate through all stations. No exam support material is allowed.
The OSCE and PC part of the test is structured as a station exam. The candidate will be assigned one or more tasks to solve within a specific period of time at every station. Before the exam, the candidate will be told how many minutes are available to him/her at each station. Exact time checks will be conducted, and there will be a brief break between each station, so that there is time to move from one station to another. Resting stations are included. The written assignments are not solved at stations, but as a whole during a predefined period of time.
Computer assignments
The computer assignments test both clinical, paraclinical and basic academic skills, and may e.g. consist of pictures and video sequences.
Written assignments
The written part of the exam tests theoretical knowledge, and consists of assignments of the MCQ (Multiple Choice Questions) or SAQ (Short Answer Questions) type.
OSCE stations
Each OSCE station tests one or more of the candidate's skills. This can be communication skills, where the candidate records a patient's medical history, or practical skills where the candidate e.g. examines a patient (an actor). The assessment places emphasis on the candidate's behaviour and communication skills when dealing with the patient. The candidate's theoretical knowledge, and knowledge about examination and treatment of illness is also a key component of the assessment.
Assessment
A lecturer with academic responsibility will be present at each station on the OSCE and computer part of the exam, and award points following specific criteria and a pre-defined points scale. The answer papers for each written assignment will also be awarded points in accordance with specific criteria and a predefined points scale. An external examiner will be present during the exam.