From the November 2013 issue of HealthCare Business News magazine
Also, it’s crucial for educators to expose students to new ideas and help them connect the dots between concepts and real-world application. Instead of teaching students straight from a textbook, educators should encourage students to look for opportunities to make a difference in a class project, within an organization or within their community. In addition, it’s important for students to learn how and where to find information when they need it.
Students tend to concentrate on short-term survival — passing tests and meeting day-to-day requirements to complete an educational program — instead of focusing on the big picture. However, educators and managers can help students and novice professionals develop diverse skill sets and stay focused on their long-term career goals. For example, educators can facilitate opportunities so students can learn from mentors and hear from people who have followed a number of different career paths.
There are resources to help educators and managers prepare students and entry-level R.T.s. Using these resources and tailoring education to the needs of the specific student will improve the experience for student and educator. The employment landscape is changing, but educators and managers encompass the necessary skills and experience to prepare the talented and passionate students who want to enter the radiologic technology profession. By empowering students to take more chances and play a proactive role in their education, educators can prepare them for future success.
About the author: Kevin J. Powers, Ed.D, R.T.(R)(M), is the director of education for the American Society of Radiologic Technologists. Kevin has more than 30 years of experience as an educator and has held program director positions for hospital, community college and university-based radiography programs.
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