Radiologic technology is a challenging, yet rewarding subject to teach and to learn.
An outstanding teacher doesn't merely tell students what they need to know, but instead awakens the desire to discover knowledge. Learning X-ray physics or the myriad of anatomy and positions may seem like a difficult task for many students. A teacher's approach, level of understanding and ability to relate to students may contribute to each student's current or future success in this field.
Lectures and Presentations
The best introductions stir the students' curiosity. Teachers achieve this by asking an intriguing question about the human body or X-ray physics; telling a relevant story about their experience as a radiologic technologist; or introducing a dilemma that students may someday face. Teachers who vary their pitch, insert visuals, express enthusiasm, and involve their students often capture their attention. The quantity of information shouldn't be excessive, and teachers may have to frequently pause to assess the students' understanding.
Active Learning
Active learning can greatly enhance students' thinking. Methods of incorporating this style of learning include discussion of case studies in groups; writing exercises based on research or experiences in clinical; debates over controversial issues, such as the risks versus the benefits of certain exams; role-playing scenarios; or presentations on film critiquing led by the students. These types of activities require the students to participate in their own learning instead of passively listening to lecture.
Clinical Learning
Laboratory settings apply theory to practice, in a safe yet challenging environment where students can make errors and learn from them. Honest feedback proves vital, whether they're doing well or need improvement. The clinical domain is the reality of the job, and possible evaluation criteria include technologists' observations, accomplishment of competencies, film critique and simulated positioning during lab.
Ethics and Patient Care
So much attention is devoted to technical aspects that it may overshadow a core reason many students select radiologic technology -- to help people. Teachers must define laws and ethics, and students should practice handling dilemmas in these areas. Movies depict both positive and negative examples of patient care. Illustrations of verbal, nonverbal and cross-cultural communication are relevant.
Tags: many students, X-ray physics
