Mini-CEX reflections

Mini-CEX reflections

By Shana | April 24, 2025

If there is one thing I have learned in my first year of med school, it is that learning how to learn is just as valuable as what we are learning. Before commencing this journey, I believed that all I needed to do was study hard and remember as much as possible. In this past term, I am beginning to understand that the way I learn (in terms of preparation, reflection and using feedback) is a huge component of the future doctor I want to be.

This post is a reflection of that process (especially through the lens of two MiniCEX assessments). 

The Learning Framework that Helped Me Get Clear

In our Professional Practice tutorials, we were introduced to Zimmerman’s model of self-regulated learning. This model separates the learning process into three parts: forethought (the way you prepare), performance (what do you do during the task) and reflection (what did you learn after). This framework helped me categorise my thoughts and gave me a framework to look at my learning behaviours differently.

Where I Am With Learning (And What I Am Still Working On)

At this point, I would say I am learning how to combine structure with flexibility. With clinical skills, I typically prepare by watching videos, then trying it out in tutorials. I quickly realised that just “going through the motions” wasn't enough.

When I did my first MiniCEX on history taking, I felt alright before starting. I was able to ask the cardinal features of the history and ensure the patient felt seen and heard, but afterwards I realised I had missed a lot of the details. I didn’t ask about smoking, alcohol consumption, and the patient’s medical history. My peer Andrew gave me some insightful feedback: he mentioned that I asked a repeated question and in certain situations I used closed questions, where open questions would have been better. 

In my second MiniCEX on cardiovascular examination, my supervisor told me that I went through the procedural steps clearly, but I needed to work on my confidence—particularly with palpating for the apex beat and placement of the stethoscope. She also suggested I explain what I am doing while I am doing it, especially indicating when I look for an elevated JVP. This feedback gave me clearer parameters of what to work on.

How I Prepare Now (and How I am Changing)

These experiences made me rethink how I prepare. Instead of cramming the content, I have been trying to find smaller opportunities to prepare. I have been using flash cards to memorise particulars such as the steps of history taking, and I have been trying to simulate practise scenarios with friends.

Time-wise, I haven’t fully figured out how to fit everything into my schedule. I am surprised at how much I underestimate the time for proper preparation. I am now trying to time-block study sessions and have some buffer time built into my schedule for factoring in plans to adapt.

Learning to Actually Use Feedback

Feedback is the most important aspect of my learning now. I found it difficult at the beginning, but I have learned to enjoy getting feedback. I have learned that specific feedback has a huge impact on what I do in my next attempt.

Now after each MiniCEX, I plan to write out what I felt I did well, what I felt I struggled with and what I plan to do differently next time. 

What does it mean moving forward: Things I am taking with me

This whole experience has shown me that being a self-regulated learner is a developmental experience and not about getting things right the first time. It is about being open to feedback, creating goals that actually mean something to you, and knowing when to shift your strategy.

Looking Ahead: What I'm Taking With Me

What this process has taught me is that self-regulated learning is a process: it is not about doing everything correctly the first time. It means being open to feedback, setting meaningful goals, and knowing when to change your approach.

Final Thoughts

Reflecting on my MiniCEX experiences and how I think about learning, has also allowed me to become more conscious of my behaviours. I have a long way to go, but I am learning to trust the process and be open to change.

Becoming a competent doctor is about more than just memorising the facts. It’s about having self-awareness, flexibility and a willingness to grow and improve. 

Thank you for reading, if you have had any of your own learning moments recently, especially ones that had an impact on your mind set change, I am happy to hear about it.

This post is part of my “Growth in Medicine” blog series. Stay tuned for more reflections, lessons, and med school moments.