Clinical examination requirements

Clinical Exam Technology requirements

• The device used to undertake the examination must be either a desktop or laptop computer. Tablets and mobile devices cannot be used. Candidates need to ensure they have administrator privileges on their device to enable software installation.
• The computer must be running the Windows 10 operating system. This can be PC, or an Apple computer set up to dual-boot into Windows 10. OS X is not supported.
• Screen size needs to be a minimum of 14 inches.
• A webcam positioned at roughly eye level.
• Headphone use is compulsory. Candidates must have a 2nd pair of headphones in the event that the first pair experience technology issues.  Plug-in headphones / earphones with a microphone are required. Wireless or Bluetooth headphones are not permitted due to risks of battery failure and poor quality audio connection.  Failure to wear headphones will result in the Candidate being withdrawn on the day of the examination.
• Reliable, high speed internet connection.
• Must have a room available with only themselves being present in the room during the examination and ensure that it is free of distractions for the whole examination.

Considerations regarding potential technology issues during an examination

The AMC is undertaking significant effort to ensure the examinations can be delivered in a reliable manner with a high level of assessment quality and organisational professionalism. However, like all online activities the examination is susceptible to technology failures. This may include events such as the candidates’ own technology failing, internet related failures or even AMC technology.

The AMC processes include post examination activities and technology investigations that can determine if a potential technology issue was legitimate or involved human intervention such as turning off a computer or internet connection. The processes and approach can also identify responsible parties (for e.g. the AMC or the candidate or other) to determine appropriate courses of action to ensure the integrity of the examination and fairness to all candidates.

Prohibited materials

No books, textbooks, notes, items of jewellery, tie pins or other materials are allowed into the examination room, including recording devices, watches (smart, digital and analogue) or handbags. Candidates are not permitted to write any prompting material on their skin before or during the examination.

In order for candidates and the AMC to communicate with each other in the event of a technical issue, candidates will be permitted to have their mobile phone switched to silent in the same room. Candidates will be required to show the invigilator that their phone is switched to silent. Only one phone is to be in the examination room.

The invigilator may request to view any items or the examination room itself prior to, during, or after the examination if necessary.

If candidates may require any medications during the examination, they should bring this to the attention of the AMC prior to the examination day and the invigilator before the examination starts.

Unsatisfactory results and irregular behaviour

Any attempt to circumvent the objectives or processes of the examination, the reliability of candidate assessment or the security of the examination or examination content, may:

1. produce examination results which cannot be confidently accepted as reflecting a candidate’s true ability,
2. compromise the integrity and security of the clinical examination and examination content, and/or
3. detract from or impede the AMC purpose of protecting the health of Australian patients and communities.

Refer to the Examination Specifications document for more information.