Student perceptions of remote access simulated learning in computed tomography

ABSTRACT

National professional capabilities for Australian Diagnostic Radiography (DR) graduates require computed tomography (CT) scanning competence. Clinical placements have varied success in achiveing CT learning experiences and dedicated simulation at university can aid development of clinical skills. This study explored DR undergraduate students’ attitudes, confidence and experiences of using a remote access simulation facility equipped with a live radiation commercial scanner. A pre- and post-clinical placement survey, with Likert scales and open-ended questions, was employed. Students in their third year of study undertook formal simulation CT learning using the NETRAD CT facility, prior to a four week off-campus clinical placement. Results indicate students (pre n = 21; post n = 23) had mixed levels of satisfaction when using NETRAD CT even though learning outcomes and relevance was clear. Comparison of pre- and post-matched statements reveals a significant decrease in students’ perception of confidence in their skills post-clinical placement, reduced satisfaction with remote learning and increased preference for hands-on experiences. Open-ended responses were polarised to either positive simulation themes of convenience and repeatability, alongside negative themes with remote access and lack of facilitation. While students considered CT simulation to be educationally engaging, the technology-rich learning environment presented challenges and believed interactive simulation is inferior to real clinical experiences.

KEYWORDS:

• Simulation
• remote access
• technology enhanced
• curriculum
• radiography
• undergraduate students

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Notes on contributors

Ms. Tara Liley, is a graduate on the University of Sydney’s Bachelor of Allied Science (Diagnostic Radiography) Honours program, achieving first class Honours and being awarded the University Medal. She is currently a practicing Diagnostic Radiographer at St. George Private Hospital, Sydney.

Dr. Elaine Ryan is a medical physicist, adjunct lecture in the Discipline of Medical Radiation Sciences at the University of Sydney and the inaugural Director of the NETRAD CT facility. Dr Ryan is the past Director of the NETRAD CT facility.

Ms. Kristal Lee is a lecturer in Diagnostic Radiography within the Bachelor of Medical Imaging program at Monash University.

Dr. Matthew Dimmock is a lecturer in Medical Physics within the Bachelor of Medical Imaging program at Monash University.

Mr. John Robinson is a lecturer in the Discipline of Medical Radiation Sciences at the University of Sydney. He is the current Honours coordinator for the Bachelor of Allied Science (Diagnostic Radiography) Honours program.

Sarah Lewis, Associate Professor, the Head of Discipline of Medical Radiation Sciences at the University of Sydney and the current Director of the NETRAD CT facility. She has published over 100 peer-reviewed journals in the fields of cancer imaging, ethical service delivery and optimisation of medical imaging service delivery.

Additional information

Funding

Simulation equipment in this study was funded by the Department of Health, Australian Government.