Clinical Assessment Team Specialist (CAT)

JOB SUMMARY: The Clinical Assessment Team Specialist (CAT) plays a crucial role in the creation of a comprehensive precision education model focused on developing non-cognitive skills such as professionalism, interpersonal, and communication skills in medical students. CATs will be embedded within clinical settings to directly observe and assess student interactions with patients, caregivers, and the interprofessional health care team. CATs will offer a unique lens through which student performance is evaluated, feedback is synthesized, and a comprehensive performance portfolio for each student is developed to shape a curriculum customized to the needs of each learner. This position represents a blend of observational assessment, structured feedback collection, and active participation in the ongoing development of medical education standards. Under the mentorship of doctorate level directors, CATs will undergo a comprehensive onboarding and continuous education program designed to develop new skill sets that integrate the clinical environment, principles of medical education, cross-discipline assessment methods. This program includes extensive training in the policies and procedures relevant to the School of Medicine and the clinical environment, foundational principles of medical education assessment, observational coding, and interpersonal dynamics. Additionally, training will cover practical skills such as software utilization for data management and analysis, reflective debriefing techniques, and advanced report writing. To ensure a well-rounded skill set, CATs will also receive instruction in ethical considerations in medical education, crisis management within clinical settings, and strategies for effective communication across interdisciplinary teams. This holistic approach aims to equip CATs with the necessary tools and knowledge to perform their roles effectively, ensuring they can contribute positively to the educational outcomes of medical students and uphold the high standards of the University of Texas at Tyler School of Medicine. This position will travel locally to various clinical sites for direct observation and assessment duties. MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES / DUTIES / CRITICAL TASKS: * Perform direct observations of medical students in various clinical settings, evaluating professionalism, interpersonal, and communication skills. * Utilize an observational coding system (similar to those used in social science) to rate observed behaviors of medical students across settings. * Gather structured and narrative feedback from a broad spectrum of clinical settings, including faculty, healthcare staff, residents, patients, and caregivers. * Develop detailed performance portfolios for each student, incorporating both quantitative assessments and qualitative feedback. * Execute report writing and meticulous data entry tasks to document observations and feedback. * Conduct simulated assessments to ensure standardization and reliability of observational techniques. * Collaboratively work with the Clinical Assessment Team and the Phase 2 Director to continuously refine and enhance the assessment process through weekly debriefing, reflection, and educational sessions. * May participate in SOM organized professional and educational development with a focus on individuals who are interested in pursuing advanced degrees (e.g., understanding research, applying to programs, CV development). * May participate in educational research through the Department of Medical Education. ACCOMPANYING KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES AND COMPETENCIES: * Proficiency in Microsoft Office Products (Word, Excel). * Exceptional observational, analytical, and report writing skills. * Strong interpersonal and communication abilities, capable of effectively interacting with medical students, physicians, and various stakeholders. * Organizational and multitasking skills, able to manage tasks efficiently in a fast-paced environment. REQUIRED EDUCATION / EXPERIENCE: * Bachelor's degree in social sciences or healthcare discipline. * Background in social sciences (e.g., psychology, sociology, anthropology, education, or related field) or clinical (e.g., LVN, RN, Case Management, Social Work). * Minimum of two (2) years' experience in related field. * Must be able to successfully complete a comprehensive 3-month paid training and certification program. WORKING ENVIRONMENT: * This position involves a combination of administrative tasks, local travel to clinical sites, and significant time spent on foot in clinical settings. * Office environment for data entry and report writing tasks.