Conducting an OSCAT interview
This page provides information about conducting the interview. It contains the following topics:
Instructions for interviewers
Provide a standard introduction describing the:
- initiative
- concept of scenario-based interviewing
- agreed rules around confidentiality or anonymity.
A sample introduction script is available here.
The interviewer should then:
- confirm demographic information required on the scenario template
- ask the interviewee the scenario questions
- use the prompt questions to ensure that all sub-elements are properly addressed
- tailor the prompt questions to the particular example that the interviewee has selected
- thank the interviewee for their time.
Once the interviewee has left the room, the interviewer should confer with the scribe to agree ratings for each sub-element.
Instructions for scribes
The scribe is responsible for the following tasks:
- documenting demographic information on the scenario template
- documenting responses/evidence provided by the interviewee that relate to the performance indicators
- circling positive or negative indicators as appropriate
- bringing the interviewer's attention to any areas not fully canvassed or where clarification is needed.
Rating the interview
Use the rating scale in the table to rate each sub-element.
The interviewer and scribe may choose to use half marks where appropriate. The rating must be based on evidence of behaviour during the scenario described.
Rating scale
Rating | Label | Description |
|---|---|---|
-2 | Very poor | Extensive negative evidence, no positive evidence |
-1 | Weak | Considerable negative evidence, little positive evidence |
0 | Intermediate | Some positive evidence, some negative evidence |
+1 | Good | Considerable positive evidence, little negative evidence |
+2 | Outstanding | Extensive positive evidence, no negative evidence |
N/A | Not applicable | Not applicable, unable to demonstrate in this scenario |