Exam Modules

Introduction

The MICGP Examination is a criterion-referenced examination. In a criterion referenced, competency based examination the pass standard is by recognised standardisation procedures. All candidates who reach this standard for the module pass the examination.

MICGP consists of the following modules:

• Applied Knowledge Test (AKT) Module.
• Modified Essay Question (MEQ) Module.
• Single Best Answer (SBA) Module.
• Oral Examinations, of which there are two.

In each module the standard is set in advance. All candidates who reach that standard will be awarded a pass. There is no compensation between modules.

Quality Control

The Examination Committee places marked emphasis on quality control of the MICGP Examination. In particular every effort is made to maintain its fairness, validity and reliability. To this end the following measures are taken:

• MICGP examiners are involved in full time general practice.
• The questions used in the MEQ, AKT, SBA and Oral Exam Modules each year reflect current practice and are derived from the ICGP Core Curriculum for general practice training. Examiners participate in regular examination development and assessment workshops.
• Each question in the MEQ is marked by two examiners. The AKT module is marked by a single examiner. To ensure fairness and accuracy in awarding marks appropriate quality control is maintained by the module convenors, this includes a sampling of answers and full review of border-line candidates.
• Oral examiners are recorded randomly. These recordings are peer-reviewed and analysed with the assistance of an independent specialist in assessment.
• The results of all modules are annually subjected to detailed statistical analysis.
• The MICGP Extern Examiner is a member of the Examination Committee and provides objective, unbiased feedback on the Examination process to the Postgraduate Training Committee (PGTC).