Bibliographic Details
| Title: |
Working with the nerves: applicant perspectives on the inclusion of an OSCE as part of postgraduate clinical psychology admissions. |
| Authors: |
Patafio, Brittany (AUTHOR), Sheen, Jade (AUTHOR), Skvarc, David (AUTHOR), Garvin, Tracy (AUTHOR), O'Shea, Melissa (AUTHOR) |
| Source: |
Australian Psychologist. Apr2026, Vol. 61 Issue 2, p127-137. 11p. |
| Subjects: |
Clinical psychology, Graduate education, Qualitative research, Questionnaires, Interviewing, School entrance requirements, Thematic analysis, School admission, Clinical competence, Academic achievement, National competency-based educational tests, Student attitudes, Self-perception |
| Geographic Terms: |
Australia |
| Abstract: |
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. Key Points: What is already known about this topic: Postgraduate psychology selection often overlooks key professional competencies; although not required at entry, assessing applicants' potential to develop them is critical. OSCEs are a valid way to assess clinical competencies, yet their use in clinical psychology admissions is under-researched. Applicants' perspectives on the value and relevance of selection tools, including OSCEs, remain insufficiently understood. What this topic adds: Applicants viewed clinical skills and experience as central to training suitability, with OSCEs showcasing clinical skills and personal statements highlighting experience. Applicants valued the opportunity to showcase clinical skills in an admissions OSCE and share reflections on their performance. OSCEs were generally acceptable, though some applicants felt anxiety could impede performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR] |
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| Database: |
Psychology and Behavioral Sciences Collection |
