Defining the need for faculty development in assessment

Abstract Background High-quality workplace-based assessments are essential for competency-based surgical education. We explored education leaders’ perceptions regarding faculty competence in assessment. Methods Surgical education leaders were surveyed regarding which areas faculty needed improvement, and knowledge of assessment tools. Respondents were queried on specific skills regarding (a)importance in resident/medical student education (b)competence of faculty in assessment and feedback. Results Surveys (n = 636) were emailed, 103 responded most faculty needed improvement in: verbal (86%) and written (83%) feedback, assessing operative skill (49%) and preparation for procedures (50%). Cholecystectomy, trauma laparotomy, inguinal herniorrhaphy were “very-extremely important” in resident education (99%), but 21–24% thought faculty “moderately to not-at-all” competent in assessment. This gap was larger for non-technical skills. Regarding assessment tools, 56% used OSATS, 49% Zwisch; most were unfamiliar with all non-technical tools. Summary These data demonstrate a significant perceived gap in competence of faculty in assessment and feedback, and unfamiliarity with assessment tools. This can inform faculty development to support competency-based surgical education.