Professional Satisfaction Among Students and Graduates from KAU Radiologic Sciences Program on Nuclear Medicine Technique Courses
Year: 2024
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Introduction: Nuclear medicine (NM) technologists must remain current with the latest advancements in radiopharmaceuticals, procedures, and diagnostic techniques. Therefore, educational programs must evolve to adequately prepare students both theoretically and practically for their future careers. Gathering student feedback is essential for enhancing course quality and ensuring high levels of student satisfaction. Aim and Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate students’ perceptions of NM technique courses in King Abdulaziz University’s (KAU) Radiologic Sciences program. It focused on improving the learning experience and assessing the effectiveness of these courses in preparing students for a career in NM and licensure examinations. Methods: An online survey was distributed to current students and graduates of the KAU Radiologic Sciences BSc program, targeting those in their third year and beyond. The survey, developed using Google Forms, included 15 questions on demographics and professional satisfaction. Results: The survey included 46 participants, 56.5% of whom were female. Over 60% rated the theoretical content of the NM technique courses as excellent or good, indicating a positive perception. However, more than 50% rated the practical sessions as average, poor, or very poor, suggesting a need for improvement. This may correlate with over 50% feeling only average or poorly prepared for a career in NM. Interest in the NM modality or a master’s program was low, with only 8.7% expressing interest in NM compared to higher interest in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computed tomography (CT), and ultrasound, and 41.3% showing little to no interest in pursuing a master’s degree. Regarding the effectiveness of the courses for Saudi Commission for Health Specialties (SCFHS) exam preparation, 56.5% selected “not applicable,” indicating that they had not taken the SCFHS exam. In contrast, 21.8% rated the courses as effective, while 21.7% rated them as average or below. Overall, 56.5% reported satisfaction with the courses. Conclusion: Students were satisfied with the theoretical content, but the practical components need improvement. Many students felt only average or poorly prepared for a career in NM, likely due to limited hands-on experience, which may contribute to the low interest in NM careers or postgraduate degrees. To enhance the learning experience, more practical opportunities should be integrated into the curriculum. A follow-up survey should assess the impact of these changes on course quality and student interest in NM.
Source: Saudi Journal of Radiology
DOI: 10.55038/bn8ryz50
Author: Afnan Darwesh
Institution: King Abdulaziz University
Language: English
Subfield: Radiology, Nuclear Medicine and Imaging
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
SDG: Quality education
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W4405286162