'Gear up and get ready': Collaborative curriculum for radiographers supporting percutaneous nephrolithotomy in the operating theatre

INTRODUCTION

Newly qualified radiographers often find working in the operating theatre (OT) challenging and intimidating. These perceptions, which inhibit confidence, may hinder their effectiveness in interprofessional teamwork, which may in turn adversely affect patient outcomes. A collaborative education programme was designed, building upon the foundations of competency-based education (CBE) and simulation-based mastery learning (SBML) to examine its potential in mitigating these perceptions. The objective of this research was to assess participants' experience and level of competency after attending the curated collaborative educational programme.

METHODS

The programme was developed based on the Analysis, Design, Development, Implementation, and Evaluation (ADDIE) model and comprises two teaching and learning phases: educational session and simulation. A collaborative approach was undertaken to develop an assessment checklist for the interprofessional simulation. Requirements for the simulation, such as scenario design, information and storyboard, task trainer, logistics, and learners' briefing, debrief, and feedback, were identified and assembled. The radiographers' performance was recorded using a practical skills assessment checklist and a theory assessment.

RESULTS

Twelve radiographers participated and showed improvement in their self-rating of learning objectives before and after the programme. The median (interquartile range) score achieved in the theory assessment, out of a possible of 11, was 9.00 (7.75-9.50). The median (interquartile range) score achieved in the simulation component, out of a possible of 16, was 15.00 (14.00-15.00). There was statistically significant difference in self-perceived performance in all learning objective domains.

CONCLUSION

The findings from the programme were promising. The use of simulation and an assessment checklist proved to be useful learning tools in preparing newly qualified radiographers for work in the OT.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Assessment checklists are valuable tools that should be considered to facilitate teaching and learning. The use of interprofessional simulation activities can support radiographers in developing knowledge, professional skills, and clinical competency. It should be conducted in a timely manner to facilitate the introduction to role understanding and effective communication.

Radiography education in 2022 and beyond - Writing the history of the present: A narrative review

OBJECTIVES

The COVID-19 pandemic had a major effect on teaching and learning. This study aimed to describe a range of teaching, learning, and assessment strategies related to radiography education which have become more common due to the pandemic through a narrative literature review.

KEY FINDINGS

Educational change in radiography was accelerated by the disruption caused by the pandemic. Changes included the site and mode of teaching and conducting of assessment. While some of the digital transformation trends were introduced before the pandemic, others were further amplified during this period of time. Alternative solutions such as virtual reality technology, gamification, and technology-enhanced learning were especially salient and have the potential to mitigate challenges brought about by the pandemic. The use of technology in the clinical setting, in assessment, and to facilitate feedback, are important tools for improving learners' clinical skills performance. Collectively, these digital technologies can maximise learning and support mastery of knowledge, skills and attitudes.

CONCLUSION

The pandemic has cast a new light on existing methodologies and pedagogies in education. This review suggests that digital technology is shaping teaching and learning within radiography education and also that educators cannot ignore this digital shift. With the digital trajectory, it would be highly useful to transform approaches to education within radiography to support learning as radiography education moves towards the new normal era.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Digital technology in education can help improve the learning experience for learners but educators need to be equipped with the technological skills and be adaptable to these changes. Continual sharing of experiences and knowledge among radiography educators is essential. Safety nets need to be in place to ensure digital inclusiveness and that no learner gets left behind due to the digital divide in education.