Assessment of Student Performance

UNR Med requires performance consistent with the high standards expected of members of the profession of medicine. Progress throughout medical school is assessed with a variety of measures that define a student's performance in both cognitive (knowledge-based) and behavioral (personal and professional qualities, values, characteristics, attitudes and interpersonal skills) domains that are necessary to the development of a physician. This reflects the importance of both sets of attributes (knowledge and professionalism) to the practice of medicine.

The evaluation system is designed to identify strengths and deficiencies at an early stage, and to propose constructive remedial strategies when needed to assist the student in meeting the required standards. Unsatisfactory performance is identified through: (a) the failure in one or more blocks, clerkships or electives; (b) a pattern of marginal performance; or, (c) notations of evaluator concern of student performance notated in evaluations related to clinical performance or professionalism. A pattern of documented concerns about a student's performance may indicate an unsatisfactory performance when the record is viewed as a whole, even though passing grades may have been assigned. The category of evaluator concern permits the faculty to note deficiencies in student performance that are not severe enough to lead to a failing grade.

Satisfactory student performance requires satisfactory completion of all blocks, clerkships and electives, and other curriculum experiences. Assessment of student performance occurs continuously throughout the curriculum. Students failing to demonstrate or adhere to academic standards, including professionalism and student responsibility, will be referred to the SPCC, which may recommend action up to and including dismissal from medical school and a student's performance may at any time be discussed by SPCC.