Developing new methods of assessing non-clinical topics in medical education

Medical education is increasingly moving into a competency-based model, where the emphasis on fact learning has decreased, and learners are required to demonstrate understanding of concepts beyond core science and pathophysiology. The presence of topics such as social determinants of health and climate change in medical curricula pose new challenges for assessment, as these do not easily allow the creation of multiple choice exam questions, but as student numbers increase, options such as essays are too resource intensive to deliver at scale. This PhD will explore existing methods of assessment, and develop, pilot and validate new formats of assessment for these complex, contextual topics.

For informal enquiries about the project, contact Dr Ellie Hothersall, e.hothersall@dundee.ac.uk

For general enquiries about the University of Dundee, contact doctoralacademy@dundee.ac.uk

Our research community thrives on the diversity of students and staff which helps to make the University of Dundee a UK university of choice for postgraduate research. We welcome applications from all talented individuals and are committed to widening access to those who have the ability and potential to benefit from higher education.

QUALIFICATIONS

Applicants must have obtained, or expect to obtain, a UK honours degree at 2.1 or above (or equivalent for non-UK qualifications), and/or a Masters degree in a relevant discipline. For international qualifications, please see equivalent entry requirements here: www.dundee.ac.uk/study/international/country/.

English language requirement: IELTS (Academic) overall score must be at least 6.5 (with not less than 5.5 in reading, listening, speaking and 6.0 in writing). The University of Dundee accepts a variety of equivalent qualifications and alternative ways to demonstrate language proficiency; please see full details of the University’s English language requirements here: www.dundee.ac.uk/guides/english-language-requirements

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APPLICATION PROCESS

Step 1: Email Dr Ellie Hothersall, e.hothersall@dundee.ac.uk to (1) send a copy of your CV and (2) discuss your potential application and any practicalities (e.g. suitable start date).

Step 2: After discussion with Dr Ellie Hothersall, formal applications can be made via our direct application system. When applying, please follow the instructions below:

Candidates must apply for the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in Medicine (3 year) using our direct application system:

Please select the study mode (full-time/part-time) and start date agreed with the lead supervisor.

In the Research Proposal section, please:

–         Enter the lead supervisor’s name in the ‘proposed supervisor’ box

–         Enter the project title listed at the top of this page in the ‘proposed project title’ box

In the ‘personal statement’ section, please outline your suitability for the project selected.