Putting post-decision wagering to the test: a  measure of self-perceived knowledge in basic sciences?

In this study, we evaluate the use of psychology-derived post-decision wagering for mappin g students self-perceived knowledge.MethodsStudents (n = 71) performed a pre-test on medical physiology, followed by a teacher-moderated discussion and a post-test with isomorph questions. Half of the students rated their self-perceived knowledge on each question using post-decision wagering, i. e. betting 1–5 points on the correctness of t heir answer, whereas the other half used a 5-point Likert scale to rate their confidence.ResultsSelf-perceived knowledge scores were higher for post-decision wagering (pre: 3.75  ± 0.14, post: 4.60 ± 0.07) compared with Likert scales (pre: 3.13 ± 0.08, post: 3.92 ± 0.08) despite similar actual knowledge scores. Furthermore, Likert ratings showed a near-normal distribution, whereas wagers were placed preferentially using the outer ends of the scale. Corr elations between mean actual and self-perceived knowledge scores were low in both groups. On average, 8.5% of responses were classified as misconceptions, defined as highly confident incorrect answers.DiscussionDespite the presumed reliability of post-decision wagering, our findings suggest that we should adhere to the use of Likert scales as a  balanced measure for self-perceived knowledge in medical education. Moreover, the prevalence of misconceptions did not alter after instruction, indicating a need for instructional designs that enhance students’ conceptual ...
Source: Perspectives on Medical Education - Category: Universities & Medical Training Source Type: research