5.1. Skill Acquisition Model
In the preclinical year, formative and comprehensive assessments will focus on the students’ transition from reporter to interpreter. The Preclinical Year Summative examinations will assess students' competency at the level of interpreter in most domains. Students must pass a comprehensive written and practical examination to progress to the clinical year. In the clinical year, students will be assessed in their progression towards mastery of the graduate competencies and preparation for clinical practice. The summative written and practical examinations prior to graduation will carry an expectation that all students achieve the level of Manager in the Clinical Learning Role model and will demonstrate a level of competent to proficient in all tasks and undertakings outlined in the program's graduate competencies. It is the expectation that students will eventually progress to the Educator/Expert level in their work as PAs.
- Reporter: The student will focus on the “what” and demonstrate the ability to accurately communicate data that is collected.
- Interpreter: The student will begin to focus on the “why” and demonstrate the ability to interpret findings.
- Manager: The student will focus on the “how” and demonstrate the ability to make management decisions.
- Educator: The student/graduate will focus on the advancement of their own knowledge and expertise and the education of patients and other health care professionals.