The opinions of stakeholders on assessment and evaluation in competency based cardiology residency training

The aim of the study was to determine the assessment and evaluation methods used in cardiology residency training in Türkiye, to get the opinions of steakholders on the applicability of formative work-based assessment methods, to identify possible obstacles and difficulties to their widespread use and to offer possible solution for their improvement. The study was descriptive, designed as triangulation type mixed method research. In the quantitative section, the opinions of heads/training directors of residency training centers were questioned with a survey. In the qualitative section, semistructured interviews were conducted with 6 focus groups including three educators, one specialists and two residents groups. Numerical data were compared with Chi Square or t- test. Qualitative data set was analysed by content analysis using the inductive coding technique. Although the resident LogBook was reported to be the most commonly used method by the centers, there were problems about regular filling and functionality of the form. The percentages of positive opinion about requirement to be successful in proficiency knowledge and skills exams were 73.8% and 58.3% respectively. Among the workbased assessment methods case-based discussion was reported as the most applicable one. The main problems in residency training were reported as lack of time due to workload, diffuculties in carrying out patient care and training simultaneously and lack of standardization between training centers. As a result of the study, to achieve the goal of widespread use of work-based assessment methods, all stakeholders of the system including trainers, residents as well as qualification board and proficiency exam coordinators need to work together with the support of health authorities. Key words: Cardiology, postgraduate medical education, assessment and evaluation