Applying the Nedelsky Method to Determine Passing Scores for End-of-Course Examinations in Dentistry

This research establishes a scientifically defensible passing score for the Oral and Maxillofacial Pathology final examination for dental students at Van Lang University by using the Nedelsky method. Five experts independently reviewed a 50-item multiple-choice test to identify distractors that a minimally competent candidate (MCC) could reasonably eliminate. The Minimum Passing Level (MPL) was calculated by averaging these expert estimates and subsequently applied to the examination results of 132 students. Student scores followed a normal distribution (p = 0.525), with an overall mean of 5.4 ± 1.3. The panel established an MPL of 52.4%, requiring at least 27 correct answers to pass. Compared to arbitrary fixed thresholds of 40% and 50%, the student pass rate decreased from 87.9% and 67.4%, respectively, to 52.3%. Twenty students - 15.2% of the cohort and 22.5% of those passing under the 50% threshold - were reclassified as borderline, indicating that they did not meet the competence level expected by the expert panel. The Nedelsky method created a higher passing standard based on student competence rather than convention. These results support adopting criterion-referenced methods to ensure assessments are fair and consistent with competency-based dental education.