CBAS

Assessment in our residency program is done using the Competency-Based Achievement System (CBAS). Competency-based assessment focuses on the demonstration of progress towards competence throughout training, rather than the assumption of competence based on time spent in a rotation (as has traditionally been the case in medical education).

CBAS is based on the belief that the most important place to assess competence is in the workplace. Additionally, we believe that formative feedback is fundamental to learning. CBAS is an assessment framework where multiple observations (captures of formative feedback shared with a learner on “FieldNotes”) from multiple observers in multiple settings all provide evidence for decisions made about the progress towards competence of our residents.

How We Use It

CBAS is the overall framework for assessment in our program. Formative feedback provided throughout training, as well as information contained in any tool for formative or summative assessment, all serve as the evidence base for summative decisions. The underlying assumptions of CBAS are based in best practices for good assessment.

A fundamental assumption of CBAS is the importance of continuity in education and assessment. For this reason, residents are matched to an advisor upon entry to our program. The advisor-resident relationship lasts for the whole residency program. While formative feedback will be shared regularly throughout training, a scheduled face-to-face discussion and decision about progress towards competence takes place every 4 months (the Periodic Progress review).

CBAS aligns with the College of Family Physicians of Canada CRAFT (Continuous Reflective Assessment for Training) recommendations.