This study evaluated a structured self-assessment activity integrated into an occupational therapy course. Graduate students completed three self-assessment modules to evaluate their knowledge and skills and identify areas for further learning. Students reported that the self-assessments helped them evaluate their learning, reflect on areas needing improvement, and feel responsible for their own learning. However, some students struggled to identify additional resources beyond course materials. The study suggests self-assessment supports learning and should be integrated throughout the curriculum.

1. Evaluating a structured self-assessment activity with graduate-level occupational therapy students
Bridgett Piernik-Yoder, PhD, OTR
The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
Background & Purpose Self-assessment Activity
Self-assessment has been identified as an important skill
for students to develop in order to enhance performance Figure 1. Sample of structured self-assessment modules completed by students during the course
and support autonomous learning (Wakeford, 2003).
However, limited research regarding the use of self-
assessment with graduate-level occupational therapy
students exists. The purpose of this study was to examine
the perceptions of graduate-level occupational therapy
students regarding a structured, formative self-
assessment activity that was integrated into a course.
Methods
A structured self-assessment activity was developed and
integrated into a required course (OCCT 6037:
Occupational therapy process for adults with
neuromuscular dysfunction) in the UTHSCSA Master of
Occupational Therapy degree program curriculum. The
self-assessment activity required students in the course to
complete three self-assessment modules during the
course (Figure 1). To complete the modules, students
were required to self-assess their knowledge and skills
related to the course content and to identify learning
strategies to further develop each knowledge or skill area.
To evaluate the self-assessment activity, data were
collected from 92 students over a three-year period using Project Outcomes
a summative evaluation after completion of the third self- Figure 2.
assessment module. Means and standard deviations for
each item were calculated and are presented in rank order Items Mean
Likert scale SD Figure 3.
from highest to lowest mean response (Figure 2). (1 = Strongly Disagree; 7 = Strongly Agree) n = 92
Narrative comments provided by the students were also Completing the self-assessments made me Narrative Responses
reviewed (Figure 3). consider areas where I need to seek additional 5.79 1.29
resources regarding my knowledge and skills “It was helpful the way components were broken up. I
Completing the self-assessments helped me used the self-assessments to double check that I
5.78 1.12
evaluate my learning in this course covered everything for studying purposes. However, I do
Conclusions Completing the self-assessments made me think I reflected on my learning in a way I am not sure I
5.70 1.24 have really done in the past.”
reflect on my learning in this course
• Students indicated the self-assessment activity made
Completing the self-assessments was a useful
them consider areas where they need to seek additional 5.68 1.15
activity for me “Doing this made me realize what I need to review and
resources to enhance their knowledge and skills study beyond class.”
Completing the self-assessments made me feel
•Students perceived the self-assessment activity assisted 5.42 1.21
responsible for my own learning
them in evaluating their learning in the course and
It was easy to complete the self-assessments 5.12 1.18 “This activity clarified for me what I feel confident in and
facilitated reflection on their learning in which areas I feel I still need to review.”
•Narrative comments indicated students have difficulty Completing the self-assessments helped me
identifying additional resources for development of 5.10 1.36
achieve my learning goals for this course
“I had difficulty knowing what other strategies to use to
knowledge and skills Completing the self- assessments assisted me
4.86 1.71 learn other than reviewing my class notes.”
•Students suggested that self-assessment be extended in studying for this course
beyond one course and be integrated throughout the Completing the self-assessments made me “I could see what we have covered and where I was
4.50 1.56
curriculum reflect on my learning in my other courses comfortable with my knowledge and where I needed
I have had experience completing self- more work. This would be helpful to do in all of our
4.21 1.73
assessments for school related activities. courses.”
Reference I have had experience completing self-
3.75 1.72
assessments for work related activities.
Wakeford, R. (2003). Principles of student assessment. In: Fry, H.,
Ketteridge,
S., Marshall, S. (Eds.). A Handbook for Teaching and Learning in
Higher Education, 2nd Ed (pp. 42 – 61). London: Kogan Page.