In-training assessments: ‘The difficulty is trying to balance reality and really tell the truth’

Background In-training assessments (ITA) aim to evaluate trainees’ progress and give valuable feedback on their performance. Many factors can affect supervisors during their completion of assessments and these can influence the final results recorded. Methods This is the second part of a study of supervisors of the Australasian College of Dermatologists (ACD) and presents the qualitative data on their opinions of the ACD ITA process and the influences on their ITA ratings. Results Supervisors noted the benefits of this assessment tool, together with many limitations. Potential influences upon supervisor ratings included the relationship between the supervisor and trainee and the level of honesty in completing and delivery of the assessment. Conclusions Many factors influence supervisors in the completion of the ITA. These include the impact of interpersonal relationships and concerns about the consequences of delivering a negative assessment, which sometimes lead supervisors to modify the assessment they deliver to the trainee. Further research is needed into honesty in assessment judgements.