CHALLENGES EXPERIENCED BY RADIOGRAPHY STUDENTS DURING CLINICAL PLACEMENTS IN A LOW RESOURCE SETTING: A QUALITATIVE PHENOMENOLOGICAL STUDY.

Introduction. Unlike classroom education, during clinical placements, much of the day-to-day activities are unplanned and unstructured, hence, learning occurs in a complex environment. While a clinical setting may provide a more authentic learning environment, it however does include many challenges for the students. Identifying the challenges experienced by students is of importance so that appropriate mitigation strategies can be put in place. The aim of the study was to explore the challenges experienced by radiography students during their clinical placements. Methods. A qualitative phenomenological design employing three focus group discussions were conducted with second, third, and fourth-year radiography students. Data were managed in Nvivo 12 and analysed according to Giorgi's phenomenological approach. Results. Six themes overlapping from all three focus groups representing the challenges experienced by students emerged. The themes include financial issues, inadequate equipment, unsatisfactory supervision, disruptive behaviours, COVID-19, and a lack of support. Conclusion. Deliberate strategies to tackle the challenges experienced by students are recommended to create an effective clinical environment for radiography students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]