Working with the nerves: applicant perspectives on the inclusion of an OSCE as part of postgraduate clinical psychology admissions

This is the authors' abstract. We don't add key points for this paper.

Traditional selection tools in postgraduate psychology have been criticised for not adequately assessing key clinical competencies. While proficiency in these areas is not expected at entry, selection processes should assess applicants’ potential to develop them. Simulated activities, such as Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs), may be more appropriate tools to assess clinical training suitability; however, research examining their inclusion within current selection processes remains limited. This study aimed to enhance our understanding of applicant’s views concerning the relative value and relevance of OSCEs compared to other selection tools, including personal statements, interviews, and academic performance. Applicants (n = 81) considered clinical skills and relevant experience to best reflect their postgraduate training suitability, with an OSCE and personal statements considered to best assess these domains. Four themes were identified from qualitative responses: (1) an OSCE allowed applicants to demonstrate practical psychology skills, (2) the limits of the OSCE as a selection tool, (3) the role of self-reflection in creating closure to an OSCE selection task, and (4) taking the OSCE forward as a selection tool. The findings support the extended use of OSCEs within postgraduate psychology admissions and provide various recommendations for future implementation.