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A Quasi-Experimental Study on the Impact of Blended Assessment on Performance and Anxiety Levels of Otorhinolaryngology Clinical Interns

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Objective: Traditional assessments for otorhinolaryngology clinical interns primarily rely on closed-book examinations (CBE) to evaluate foundational knowledge and reinforce long-term retention. This quasi-experimental study investigates the impact of a blended assessment model—integrating both open-book and closed-book components—on academic performance, test anxiety, and preparation time, compared to the conventional CBE approach. Methods: A total of 240 medical students from the 2019 (CBE, n = 115) and 2020 (blended assessment, n = 125) cohorts at the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University were enrolled. Exam scores, preparation time, test format preferences, and Revised Test Anxiety Scale (RTA) scores were collected and analyzed. Statistical comparisons between the 2 groups were performed. Results: All 240 participants (123 males and 117 females) completed the study, achieving a 100% participation rate. No significant differences were found between the CBE and blended assessment groups in academic performance ( P = .906) or anxiety levels ( P = .411). However, the blended assessment group reported significantly longer preparation times ( P = .027). RTA scores were not significantly correlated with gender ( P = .416), exam scores ( P = .282), or preparation time ( P = .410), though female students exhibited slightly higher anxiety levels. Regarding exam format preferences, 19.2% of students favored CBE (70.8% female), while 80.2% preferred open-book exams (43.6% female). Conclusion: The blended assessment model, incorporating both CBE and open-book examinations, serves as a feasible alternative for evaluating clinical interns, fostering their problem-solving abilities. While it demands increased preparation time, it is well-received by students and holds promise for broader adoption in medical education.

Source: Ear Nose & Throat Journal

DOI: 10.1177/01455613251339760

Authors: Shuo Wu, Feitong Jian, Qintai Yang

Institutions: Sun Yat-sen University, Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University

Language: English

Topic: Innovations in Medical Education

Subfield: Public Health, Environmental and Occupational Health

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Quality education, Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $2,650