Presentation Description
Shanika Nanayakkara1
Heiko Spallek1, Delyse Leadbeatter1 and Jinlong Gao1
1 The University of Sydney
Heiko Spallek1, Delyse Leadbeatter1 and Jinlong Gao1
1 The University of Sydney
Background
Assessments for selection to dentistry are expected to effectively identify applicants who will succeed in the program and subsequently become an effective member of the profession upon graduation. Assessment tools used in dental admissions are complex and diverse among various universities and across different legislations(1). The Graduate Australian Medical School Admissions Test (GAMSAT) is widely applied in admissions of postgraduate entry programs in medicine and dentistry across Australia(2).
Summary of work
This study examined the relationship between GAMSAT scores and academic performance of students enrolled from 2016-2021 in the Doctor of Dental Medicine program at the University of Sydney.
Results
Admission and academic performance data for 553 students were analyzed. A weak negative correlation was observed between GAMSAT section II and III scores. No statistically significant correlations were present between GAMSAT section and overall scores, and students’ performance in preclinical and clinical assessments.
Discussion
GAMSAT alone cannot accurately predict dental students’ academic performance. This analysis was limited to a single center data with limited timespan. A multi-center prospective study is recommended to further evaluate the value of GAMSAT in dental admissions. This study is not assessing the ultimate outcome that all dental education institution desire, that their graduates improve the oral health of the population—however, this study represents a valuable step in this direction.
Conclusion
Over emphasizing on GAMSAT scores in dental admissions may not result in selection of applicants who are suitable and ready for dentistry.
Take-home messages / implications for further research or practice
- Further research to evaluate the predictive validity of GAMSAT scores in dental admissions on students’ academic performance are warranted.
- GAMSAT section and overall scores provide weak prediction on students’ academic performance in dentistry.
- There is a need for selection instruments to achieve optimal outcomes in dental admissions.
References (maximum three) References
- Cunningham C, Kiezebrink K. Insights on selection of undergraduate dental students. European Journal of Dental Education. 2022 Jul 22.
- Sladek RM, Bond MJ, Frost LK, Prior KN. Predicting success in medical school: a longitudinal study of common Australian student selection tools. BMC medical education. 2016 Dec;16:1-7.