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Ask the expert: What is a microskills model of assessment?

Residency Program Connection, May 8, 2007

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The microskills model, also called the "one-minute preceptor," provides a framework for building teacher-learner interactions and provides the teacher with a system for efficient and effective teaching around a single patient encounter. The microskills of clinical teaching include the following guidelines to observe and evaluate a resident. The teacher should

• get a commitment
• probe for supporting evidence
• teach general rules
• reinforce what was done right
• correct mistakes

This model provides learners with the opportunity to reflect on their encounter with a patient as it unfolds, formulate conceptualizations and generalizations from the experience, and test those in new situations. Microskills necessary for professional performance must be taught and learned. For example, microskills in interpersonal and communications skills competency include the following behaviors:

• Developing rapport
• Using open-ended questions
• Listening
• Facilitating the patient's response

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