Board member describes new NBEO testing center in Charlotte, urges review of Kansas clinical exam policy
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Summary
A board member who toured the National Board of Examiners in Optometry testing facility in Charlotte reported on psychometrics, security and capacity, and urged the board to decide whether to reinstate or alter Kansass clinical exam policy ahead of April deadlines.
A board member reported on a recent visit to the National Board of Examiners in Optometry (NBEO) testing facility in Charlotte, describing the center's security, standardized-patient operations, and the psychometric review that informs exam content.
The reporting board member praised the facility's design and described the NBEO's process for determining question priority by risk and frequency. He explained the use of statistical metrics such as a question's p-value (how many respondents answer correctly) and r-value (correlation with overall test performance) to vet exam items. "Each question is thoroughly scrutinized both pre and post exam for statistical validity," the member said.
Board members discussed whether Kansas should retain a written exam, reinstate a clinical-skills portion, or otherwise adjust the state's approach. The member urged that the board make decisions about clinical-skills requirements before April so applicants can plan. The board also noted concerns reported elsewhere about falsified MBEO scores and repeated failed attempts by some candidates.
Why this matters: Changes at the national testing level can affect state licensure processes, applicant scheduling and fairness. The board said it will consider whether to continue the written exam, reinstate clinical skills testing, or change its current approach before the stated planning window in April.
Next steps: The board flagged the item for discussion at an upcoming meeting and suggested inviting NBEO representatives to answer questions virtually.
