Introduction of analytic rubrics for assessing short answer questions in forensic medicine & toxicology for phase III part-1 medical students

In the field of medical education, the most crucial component for educational excellence is assessment of learning outcomes amongst students. Short Answer Questions (SAQs) are precious for evaluating comprehension, reasoning, and the application of medical principles in legal contexts. The objectives of the study were to design and implement analytic rubrics for assessing SAQs in Forensic Medicine.

The study was conducted on Phase III Part-1 MBBS students (n=75) after being approved by the Institutional Ethics Committee. The analytic rubrics for assessing SAQs were prepared and validated by subject experts from different institutes. The students were assessed in the taught competency by SAQ based tests. These answer sheets were evaluated by traditional method. Thereafter, the department faculty was sensitized to rubric-based assessments and the answer sheets were re-evaluated using the analytic rubrics method. A scores obtained by the two assessment methods were compared and feedback of the students was obtained using feedback questionnaires. One-to-one interviews were conducted for obtaining faculty’s feedback.

There was a significant increase in the scores by rubric assessment method (p<0.001). The faculty & students’ feedback indicated a strong preference for rubrics and appreciated the clarity and effectiveness of this method.

Implementing analytic rubrics in Forensic Medicine assessments has improved objectivity and transparency, fostered better educational outcomes and enhanced student understanding of assessment criteria.