“Less paperwork and more practical approaches”: An exploration of stakeholder opinions and priorities for UK postgraduate medical ultrasound education

Abstract

Introduction

Training in medical ultrasound must adapt to the evolving needs of the healthcare landscape. This study aimed to gain a comprehensive understanding of stakeholders’ current opinions and priorities for UK postgraduate medical ultrasound education.

Methods

A UK-wide, online, anonymous survey was open to responses between 7th June and 15th July 2024. To ensure participant convenience, the survey questions were mainly designed as closed or priority ranking questions. Additionally, participants were given the opportunity to elaborate on their answers through free-text response options. Responses to closed questions were analysed using descriptive statistics and integrated within coding clusters generated through qualitative content analysis of free-text responses.

Results

89 valid responses were received, with an overall average completion rate of 64 %. The largest group of respondents were sonographers (n = 48), from a radiography background (n = 30). Most respondents held a CASE-accredited qualification in medical ultrasound (n = 66). Five coding clusters were developed during data analysis: 1) Teaching and academic assessment; 2) Clinical competency; 3) Educational content, delivery, and faculty structure; 4) Stakeholder development and, 5) Student experience. Key stakeholder priorities included high-quality teaching and standardised assessment processes, maintaining good working relationships between faculty and practice educators, and increased opportunities for professional development to support student learning and personal career advancement.

Conclusion

Although traditional lectures are regarded as core, increased integration of practical approaches, enabled by digital technology is needed to develop critical reasoning and real-world competency. Co-development of curricula with key stakeholders is essential to ensure relevance and suitability of course content and delivery.

Implications for practice

This study highlights important considerations for medical ultrasound education providers to support positive learning experiences for trainee sonographers whilst facilitating professional development opportunities for practice educators.