Workplace-based Assessment in Miller's Pyramid

Workplace-based assessment in Miller's pyramid

Workplace-based assessment (WPBA) is a method of evaluating medical professionals that focuses on their performance in real-life situations. This approach was introduced by psychologist George Miller in 1990 as part of his framework for assessing clinical competence, which is commonly known as Miller's pyramid. The pyramid consists of four levels: knowledge (knows), competence (knows how), performance (shows how), and action (does).

Knowledge (knows)

At the lowest level of the pyramid, knowledge refers to the information and facts that a professional has learned. Assessment of knowledge is typically done using traditional methods such as written examinations and multiple-choice questions.

Competence (knows how)

The second level in the pyramid is competence, which involves the ability to apply knowledge to specific situations. Assessment of competence can be done through exercises that test problem-solving skills and the application of knowledge to real-life scenarios.

Performance (shows how)

The third level of the pyramid is performance, which focuses on how a professional demonstrates their skills in real-life situations. Workplace-based assessments, such as direct observation of procedures and case-based discussions, are used to evaluate performance at this level.

Action (does)

The highest level of the pyramid is action, which involves the actual performance of a professional in their work environment. Workplace-based assessments are particularly effective in evaluating professionals at this level, as they provide an opportunity to observe and evaluate a professional's actions in real-time.

Does

Workplace-based assessments are particularly effective in evaluating professionals at the highest level of Miller's pyramid, which involves the actual performance of a professional in real-life situations. These assessments provide an opportunity to observe and evaluate a professional's actions in real-time, which is not possible with traditional written examinations or multiple-choice questions.

Shows how

Workplace-based assessments are also useful in evaluating professionals at the third level of Miller's pyramid, which focuses on how a professional demonstrates their skills in real-life situations. Direct observation of procedures, case-based discussions, and other workplace-based methods can provide valuable insights into a professional's performance and competence.

In conclusion, workplace-based assessments are an essential tool for evaluating medical professionals in the context of Miller's pyramid. By focusing on actual performance in real-life situations, these assessments provide a more accurate and comprehensive evaluation of a professional's competence and skills than traditional written examinations or multiple-choice questions.