Improving Radiographic Skills in Veterinary Students with Visual Thinking Strategies
Author Information
Author(s): Wolf Jacob, Tillander Michelle, Peper Katharine, Phillips Kastenholz Victoria, Lantow Vivian, Classe Charlie, Jiang Yihan, Colon Elayne
Primary Institution: University of Florida
Hypothesis
Inclusion of VTS in rounds sessions for third- and fourth-year veterinary students would lead to improved observational and interpretative skills for both radiographic and chart interpretation.
Conclusion
The study found that VTS significantly improved radiographic observation and interpretation skills in veterinary students, but did not have the same effect on patient chart interpretation.
Supporting Evidence
- Radiographic observation scores increased significantly after VTS.
- Students reported that VTS made them pay closer attention to radiographic details.
- 70% of students felt VTS changed their approach to clinical interpretation.
- 81% of students found VTS fun.
- 70% of students did not find VTS stressful.
Takeaway
Using art to think about pictures can help veterinary students get better at looking at X-rays, but it didn't help them with reading patient charts.
Methodology
Students observed and interpreted radiographs and patient charts before and after participating in VTS sessions, with scores evaluated by a radiologist and a resident.
Potential Biases
Potential bias due to the non-randomized order of image presentation.
Limitations
Only one piece of art was used, and the order of images and charts was not randomized.
Participant Demographics
Mean age 26 years; 22% male, 78% female; 11% had formal art training.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.001 for radiographic observations, p<0.01 for radiographic interpretation.
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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