Understanding the language of imaging pathology using familiar objects

Hypothesis: Using images of familiar objects aids student understanding of medical imaging descriptive terms. Objective: This project reports on the outcome of using images of familiar objects to engage students in the terminology and descriptors commonly used to describe image appearances. Method: Students undertook practical sessions reviewing x-ray images of familiar objects. Students were then tasked to provide a description of the image appearance using only medical imaging technical language descriptors. On completion of the activities students were invited to participate in an anonymous feedback survey on engagement, knowledge learnt and overall impact of these sessions. Results: Results of the activities and the student language descriptors are presented. Conclusion: The language used in describing medical image appearances is unique and specific. Using a scaffolded learning approach to developing correct language and then applying it to common objects assists students in the development of a skill which will be required for professional practice.