Group observed structured encounter (GOSCE) for third-year medical students improves self-assessment of clinical communication

AbstractObjectives: This study assesses the effectiveness of a GOSCE in teaching medical students clinical communication, as well as group collaboration and peer feedback.Methods: The GOSCE was administered during the Internal Medicine clerkship. Groups consisted of 4–6 students and one faculty member. Students completed pre- and post-GOSCE surveys to assess confidence in clinical communication and a GOSCE evaluation to rate the overall experience. Pre- and post-GOSCE program survey scores were compared, and the mean score and standard deviation of the GOSCE evaluation was calculated.Results: Students perceived improvement in their general (Mean 4.49–4.57, p < .0001), case-specific (3.61–3.84, p < .0001) and group clinical communication (3.75–4.09, p < .0001) skills. Students agreed or strongly agreed that the GOSCE taught them something new (91.20%), made them more comfortable in giving (64.31%) and receiving (66.57%) feedback and working with a group (64.22%). Students found the GOSCE to be as effective...