A web based Foundations of Radiological Physics for diagnostic radiology residents

RATIONALE AND OBJECTS: We describe a new web-based physics course for radiology residents preparing for the Exam of the Future (EOF).

Materials and methods: A course was developed with a total of 12 web-based modules. Six modules were focused on "imaging" and six on "radiation." A module was subdivided into nine short "nuggets." Traditional lectures were replaced by modules using prerecorded lectures (Tegrity) to a secure website (WebCT). Each module was accompanied by three quizzes, each consisting of ten questions designed to reinforce covered materials. All online modules were accompanied by a noon conference that employed an Audience Response System (Turning Point). Seventeen first-year residents over 2 consecutive years beginning in July 2010 took this new course, and participated in an anonymous online follow-up survey (Survey Monkey).

Results: The recorded 12 modules had an overall average duration of 72 ± 19 minutes. Ten of 17 residents expressed a preference of 15 minutes for nugget duration. Highest personal assessment scores of each resident's understanding were obtained in human radiation risks and radiation protection. Residents considered supplemental noon conferences to be important for learning radiological physics. Satisfaction level was largely positive, with five residents highly satisfied, nine residents somewhat satisfied, two residents neutral, and only one resident somewhat dissatisfied.

Conclusions: Our Foundations of Radiological Physics course was well received and served as the springboard for mastering x-ray-based imaging modalities of radiography, mammography, fluoroscopy, interventional radiology, and computed tomography.