Assessing noncognitive domains of respiratory therapy applicants: Messick’s framework appraisal of the multiple mini-interview

Educators who assess incoming applicants into a health professional training program are looking for a wide array of cognitive and noncognitive skills that best predict success in the program and as a future practicing professional. While aptitude tests generally measure cognitive skills, noncognitive constructs are more difficult to measure appropriately. The traditional method of measuring noncognitive constructs has been the panel interview. Panel interviews have been described as inconsistent in measuring noncognitive domains and consistently reported as unreliable and susceptible to bias. An alternate interview method used in many health professions schools is the multiple mini-interview (MMI) that was specifically designed to assess noncognitive domains in health professions education. This paper discusses the purpose of using the MMI, how the MMI is conducted, specific domains of focus for the MMI, and the feasibility of creating an MMI. Finally, the paper uses Messick’s framework on validity to guide the consideration of the MMI.