An Innovative Learning Tool for Radiation Therapy Treatment Plan Evaluation: Implementation and Evaluation

Purpose To design, develop, and evaluate an interactive simulation-based learning tool for treatment plan evaluation for radiation oncology and medical physics residents to address gaps in learning. Methods and Materials We first conducted a needs assessment for optimal learning tool design and case selection. Next, we generated a curated database of cases with clinically unacceptable treatment plans accessible through an in-house developed interactive web-based digital imaging and communications in medicine-radiation therapy viewer. We then developed an interactive user module that allows case selection, learner participation, and immediate feedback, including the final clinically acceptable plan. We pilot tested this case bank learning tool with current radiation oncology and medical physics residents within our institution. Afterward, residents completed an evaluation of tool design, content, and perceived impact on learning and provided suggestions for improvement. Results We generated 70 cases and learning modules for the case bank, encompassing various clinical sites, levels of difficulty, and classified errors. Residents positively endorsed the learning tool, including design, content, and perceived impact on learning. The learning tool’s interactivity was perceived to provide increased educational value compared with other current learning methods. Conclusions We created a high-fidelity simulation platform for treatment plan evaluation linked to a curated case bank. Evaluation of the pilot deployment demonstrated a benefit for resident learning and competency attainment. Future directions include external validation and expansion.