Radiographers' experiences on learning arenas, learning needs and lifelong learning in the radiography profession

Abstract

Purpose: This study aims to qualitatively explore radiographers' learning needs and to better understand important learning arenas for radiographers in order to promote lifelong learning (LLL). Lifelong learning and continuing professional development (CPD) are both activities and catalysts for exploring the learning needs of radiographers. Investigating radiographers' learning needs and the location for best learning is important in order to effectively utilise current and future CPD programmes and directives. Methods: Six radiographers working in a public Norwegian medical imaging department (MID) took part in the study. A combination of individual interviews and a focus group were used. Grounded Theory (GT) was used to qualitatively explore the learning needs and learning arenas important to these radiographers. Results: The radiographers defined their work place as the best learning arena. On-the-job training, knowledge sharing through peer practice and interdisciplinary collaboration were important in the learning process. The radiographers placed a strong importance on technical sub-specialising in modalities as well as reflecting on the completeness in the radiographic role. The need for a better merge between theoretical education and applied radiographic practice was identified. Conclusion: Experiential learning was found to be central to the radiographers' learning. The learning needs of the radiographers embraced specialisation as well as the theoretical domain and there was evidence that the rapid technological pace impacted upon the radiographers' sense of achievement, motivation and adequacy. The participating radiographers acknowledged the necessity of lifelong learning, but also called to attention the importance of collegial guidance, interprofessional collaboration and feedback in creating a reflective practitioner.