Candidate evaluation of the Multiple Mini-interview (MMI) as a selection tool for physiotherapy undergraduate students

Within Cardiff University a number of healthcare courses are using the multiple-mini interview (MMI) as a transparent method where the desired attributes of candidates can be assessed. The MMI is an admissions tool designed to replace the traditional interview and its use has been shown in the literature to be more psychometrically sound than the traditional interview format. The MMI is made up of a series of short, carefully timed interview stations which provide information about applicants' ability to think on their feet, critically appraise information, communicate ideas, and demonstrate that they have thought about some of the issues that are important to the physiotherapy profession. Since 2014, 635 candidates have attended the MMI for selection to the Cardiff physiotherapy undergraduate programme. Candidate feedback was obtained voluntarily after interview by means of an anonymous questionnaire with a response rate of 100%. These responses demonstrate high candidate satisfaction with the process and agreement amongst candidates that the MMI interview is fairer than another method of interviewing. Participation in the MMIs were found to be a positive and valuable experience for the majority of candidates. The evaluation data provides evidence as to the acceptability of this innovative method for recruitment to the physiotherapy programme at Cardiff University