OSCE and OSPE in Forensic Toxicology

The mandated transition to Competency-Based Education (CBE) in the undergraduate and postgraduate curriculum for MBBS and MD students has prompted me to develop another book on OSCE and OSPE in Forensic Toxicology for assessing both undergraduates and postgraduates in their examinations. Drawing from my nearly two decades of teaching experience, I have noticed a lack of uniformity in student assessment, with each student being evaluated differently, using varied questions, modes of questioning, and examiners. This variability often introduced biases into the examination system. Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) and Objective Structured Practical Examination (OSPE) offer a solution to this issue by ensuring that all students are evaluated using the same questions and criteria, leading to more objective assessment by examiners. Despite their effectiveness, the utilization of OSCE and OSPEs remains limited in India. Thoughtfully designed OSCE and OSPE formats have the potential to comprehensively evaluate students in various aspects, including knowledge, ethics, attitudes, and behavior when interacting with patients or their relatives. This book is tailored to meet the updated requirements and course content of the revised curriculum in accordance with the National Medical Commission (NMC) guidelines. The author has incorporated new competencies to align with these changes. It is anticipated that this book on OSCE and OSPE in Forensic Toxicology will greatly assist students, including MBBS and MD graduates, in advancing toward their goal of becoming proficient physicians or surgeons, as outlined by the latest directives from the Medical Council of India. The OSCE and OSPE formats have been meticulously crafted to align with the competencies, objectives, and skills essential for both undergraduate and postgraduate students in Forensic Medicine and Toxicology.