The role of deliberate practice in development of essential sonography skills

Abstract

AbstractThe role of deliberate practice (DP) theory in the development of expert performance has been widely studied. This paper reviews the concept of DP and the various factors that could impact the development or refining of essential sonography skills for students and practitioners. In this article, the authors review the concept of DP for its potential benefits and limitations in Medical Sonography education and its potential impact on the future calibre of practitioners. The paper encourages both novice and experienced practitioners to rethink how DP could enhance the notion of grasping a skill. Evidence from various areas of practice including the health professions has been used to argue that sonographers can successfully incorporate DP. This review opens up the opportunity for further conversations on how various skills could be isolated and improved using DP theory, with the primary aim of improving the quality of patient care in sonography practice.