Generic learning objectives in the domain of medical device physics

Abstract

It has been suggested that the role of the biomedical physics-engineering educator in faculties of health sciences should focus primarily on the functioning and effective and safe use of medical devices. This is a wide- ranging role which has a legal basis particularly now that the definition of the term ‚medical device' has been clarified in international legislation. The array, variety and complexity of medical devices is increasing rapidly with the swift advances in healthcare technology. However as medical device education is not keeping pace so are under-utilisation and the number of adverse clinical incidents arising from improper use. This paper describes a set of generic learning objectives which can be applied to the teaching of most medical devices. Such generic learning objectives are essential to ensure a consistent and coherent approach across the curricula of the various healthcare professions and to the development of international curricula as required by, for example the Bologna process in Europe. The application of this generic approach to the subsequent setting up of profession-specific learning objectives will be briefly illustrated in the area of medical imaging device physics education for radiographers.