Validation of the educational effectiveness of a mobile learning app to improve knowledge about MR image quality optimisation and artefact reduction

Abstract

AimThe aim was to design an app-based eLearning tool to provide radiographers with information about the physical basis of MR artefacts and practical elimination or/and minimisation strategies to optimise image quality, and to evaluate the impact of a smartphone app on radiographers’ knowledge.MethodsThe study used the comparison-experimental approach (pre- and post-test). Thirty-five MR radiographers independently reviewed a prepared series of MR images (n = 25). The participants were requested to identify image quality related errors, to specify error-correction strategies and to score how confident they were in their responses. Participants were then divided into experimental (n = 19) and control cohorts (n = 16). The app was provided to the experimental cohort for 3 months; after this period both cohorts re-reviewed the MR image datasets and repeated their identification of image quality errors.ResultsThe results showed a statistically significant difference between control and experimental cohorts relative to participants’ pre- to post-test knowledge level. For the experimental cohort, years of experience, qualification and type of hospital were not associated with radiographer knowledge level and confidence in recognising the presence of an image quality error, naming the error and specifying appropriate correction strategies (p > 0.05).ConclusionThe study identified the potential of the smartphone app as an effective educational tool to support MR radiographers’ knowledge in recognising and characterising MR image quality errors.Key Points• A high level of knowledge to optimise MR image quality is crucial.• Ongoing education in image quality optimisation is required.• The potential role of app as an effective educational tool is identified.

Effectiveness of the clinical decision support tool ESR eGUIDE for teaching medical students the appropriate selection of imaging tests: randomized cross-over evaluation

“…Digital transformation will also fundamentally change e-Learning to reach new levels using image interaction possibilities, which were not included in the present study, yet may further increase radiology knowledge and skills of medical students [19]. Interestingly, e-Learning can also be used to increase skills in optimizing acquisition and reducing artifacts in magnetic resonance imaging [20]. For a long time, e-Learning has already been used to assist medical students in understanding anatomy [21].…”

High User Acceptance of a Retina e-Learning App in Times of Increasing Digitalization of Medical Training for Ophthalmologists

“…Only few studies compare the knowledge level of users before and after participation in an e-learning programme [ 12 , 15 ]. Overall, there is currently insufficient data to assess whether e-learning in medicine has a measurable, positive effect on clinical decision-making or even on patient outcomes.…”

ESR statement on new approaches to undergraduate teaching in Radiology

“…New technologies and innovative approaches may help teaching radiology knowledge and skills to medical students [5]. Notably, e-Learning is also helpful in increasing skills and knowledge of radiographers about magnetic resonance imaging optimisation and artefact reduction [6]. Also, e-Learning solutions for radiological anatomy have been shown to help first-year medical students to review anatomy [7].…”