How many questions do I have to answer?
The length of your participation in the program is based on your certificate expiration date; it is not based on a total number of questions. If your ABO certificate expires on or after December 31, 2021, you will need to meet the annual passing standard for Quarterly Questions five times before the expiration date.
What are the journal articles?
Diplomates will select five options from a curated list of peer-reviewed, “must-read” journal articles and answer at least 10 questions (two questions per article).
How often will I receive the questions?
New questions will be available on the first day of Quarters 1, 2, and 3. Quarter 4 is an option bonus quarter. It is not necessary to complete the questions as they are released; they may be answered at your own pace.
How will I know when new questions are available?
At the beginning of each quarter, diplomates will receive an email notification to the email address on record indicating that new questions are available.
Do I have to answer all questions at once?
No. Questions may be answered your convenience. Questions may be answered one at a time, in small batches, or all in one sitting.
Where can I answer questions?
Diplomates can answer questions using any computer, tablet, or mobile device with internet access. This allows diplomates to answer questions at the time and place of their choosing. The ABO recommends selecting a quiet, distraction-free environment.
How much time am I given for each question?
You will have one minute to answer each knowledge-based question. Effective 2020, article-based questions are not timed. Two attempts are offered for each journal-based question.
Should I use resources to answer questions?
No. Questions are designed so that they should not require advance study, calculations, or the use of books or reference guides while answering. However, a content outline is available for guidance. For article-based questions, thoroughly pre-reading your selected journal articles will serve as sufficient preparation.
May I consult with my colleagues while answering a question?
No, the program is designed as an independent activity.
Will the questions include graphics, videos, or audio recordings?
Yes. You may see images and graphics in the questions. The ABO is exploring the addition of videos and audio recordings as future enhancements.
Can I skip over a question and return to it later?
No. Once you start a question, the timer begins. All questions are scored.
What happens if I do not answer my questions by the end of quarter?
Nothing. Questions may be answered at your own pace.
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