Using simulations to train students in treatment planning.

Background Computer treatment planning systems (TPS) are an integral component of radiation therapy planning (RTP). Students' active clinical involvement in RTP increases during successive clinical placements, although radiation therapists can be reluctant to have students participating in TPS use because of concerns about possible treatment errors and time constraints. Therefore, radiation therapists frequently observed RTP and TPS learning deficits in students while on clinical placement at Northern Sydney Cancer Centre (NSCC). The authors hypothesized that a structured series of learning packages using high-fidelity TPS simulations as part of RTP could enhance learning in these areas during clinical placements. Methods A 6-month pilot study of 33 TPS-based simulations in the form of learning packages developed by the authors at NSCC was conducted. The learning packages' effectiveness was evaluated from both student and mentor perspectives using similar questionnaires. Results Thirteen students used the TPS learning packages while on clinical placement at NSCC. Eleven students strongly agreed that they were more knowledgeable and confident operating TPS planning processes after completing the TPS learning packages than at the start of their clinical placement. Mentors' responses were similar. Issues related to student isolation and a need for access to mentors for technical advice and feedback were identified. Conclusion Questionnaire responses revealed that TPS learning packages are an effective simulation and therefore a valuable learning tool for undergraduate radiation therapy students learning RTP and TPS operation in a clinical environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]