How radiography educators teach the concept of caring to undergraduate radiography students

Abstract

IntroductionCaring is a key part of a radiographers work and the education of student radiographers. Despite recent literature highlighting the importance of putting the patient at the centre of care and being caring, research describing the educational approaches used by radiography educators to facilitate the teaching of caring is lacking. The aim of this paper is to explore the teaching and learning strategies used by radiography educators to facilitate the development of caring in students. MethodsA qualitative, exploratory research design was used. Purposive sampling was used to select radiography educators (n = 9). This was followed by quota sampling to ensure all four radiography disciplines, namely diagnostic radiography, diagnostic ultrasound, nuclear medicine technology and radiation therapy were represented in the sample. Data was analysed thematically and themes were identified. ResultsThe findings indicated that radiography educators use teaching strategies such as peer role play, learning through observation and role modelling to facilitate teaching and learning of caring. ConclusionThe study suggested that although radiography educators know the teaching strategies that facilitate caring, aspects such as clarification of professional values and the refinement of reflection seems to be lacking. Implications for practiceThe teaching and learning approaches that can assist students in developing as caring radiographers can add to the evidence-based pedagogies that shape the teaching of caring in the profession.