Abstract
IntroductionSimulation forms a key element of undergraduate Radiography education as it enables students to develop their clinical skills in a safe environment. In this study, an immersive three-dimensional (3D) virtual radiography simulation tool was piloted in an undergraduate Radiography curriculum and user feedback retrieved. MethodsThe 3D virtual simulation tool by Virtual Medical Coaching Ltd was introduced to first year radiography students (n = 105). This technology guided students through a comprehensive process of learning anatomy, radiographic positioning and pathology. Students then X-rayed a virtual patient in the VR suite using HTC Vive Pro™ headsets and hand controllers. Instant feedback was provided. An online survey was later disseminated to students to gather user feedback. Thematic and descriptive statistical analyses were applied. ResultsA response rate of 79% (n = 83) was achieved. Most respondents (58%) reported enjoying VR simulation, whilst some felt indifferent towards it (27%). Ninety-four percent would recommend this tool to other students. The mean length of time it took for students to feel comfortable using the technology was 60 min (10–240 min). Most respondents (58%) desired more VR access. Students attributed enhanced confidence in the areas of beam collimation (75%), anatomical marker placement (63%), centring of the X-ray tube (64%) and exposure parameter selection (56%) to their VR practice. Many students (55%) advocated the use of VR in formative or low stakes assessments. Issues flagged included technical glitches, inability to palpate patient and lack of constructive feedback. ConclusionStudent feedback indicates that 3D virtual radiography simulation is a valuable pedagogical tool in radiography education Implications for practice3D immersive VR simulation is perceived by radiography students to be a valuable learning resource. VR needs to be strategically implemented into curricula to maximise its benefits.
Highlights
Simulation forms a key element of undergraduate Radiography education as it enables students to develop their clinical skills in a safe environment
There has been an extension of physical skills labs into computer-based virtual environments[2,3] and more recently into immersive 3D virtual reality (VR) simulation environments,4e6 which overcome some of the aforementioned limitations
There has been widespread adoption of virtual simulation tools in radiation therapy education over the past decade.12e15 the same trends have not been observed in radiography education despite several simulators developed; Projection VRTM by Shaderware,[2] Medspace VRTM,[16] Medical Imaging Training Immersive Environment (MITIE),[17] Clinical Education Training Solution (CETSOL) VR ClinicTM18 and VR software by Virtual Medical Coaching Ltd
Summary
Simulation forms a key element of undergraduate Radiography education as it enables students to develop their clinical skills in a safe environment. Radiographers require considerable technological and scientific expertise in the production of diagnostic images and the responsible delivery of ionising radiation Such expertise is developed and contextualised through clinical skills labs and clinical placement, both of which are integral to radiography education.[1] Clinical skills labs provide students with an opportunity to learn in a safe. User feedback was retrieved to; Determine whether students perceived this tool to be beneficial towards their confidence and skill development
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