Critiquing a research article as an evidence-based practice assessment strategy within a radiography training programme

Authors

  • Devdu Namadini Rathnasiri Monash University
  • Imelda Josephine Williams Monash University

Keywords:

assistant practitioners, evaluating articles, mixed-method approach, professional capabilities

Abstract

Evidence-based practice (EBP) has been identified by the Medical Radiation Practice Board of Australia (MRPBA) as one of the professional capabilities required by entry-level medical radiation practice professionals seeking to qualify for registration. EBP is the process of meticulously analysing current research in order to provide the best patient care. Therefore, EBP allows for systematic advancement of skills and practise within the radiography profession in order to consistently ameliorate the quality of imaging, technique and care of the patient. Hence it is of utmost importance that students enrolled within a radiography programme should, upon graduation, be able to demonstrate this critical thinking capability.

Students within the second year of a four-year degree programme at Monash University in Australia are required to critique a peer-reviewed research paper as an EBP assessment strategy. Students are provided with a qualitative critiquing framework and a marking rubric as guidance. A review carried out by a second year radiography student focuses on a qualitative publication and critically assesses its relative merits according to the EBP assessment strategy.

On reflection, the student concluded that although an article is peer reviewed, it is important to perform one’s own review in order to gain a sound understanding of the purpose, methodology and findings. In undertaking this assessment strategy, the student was exposed to the necessary skills required to appropriately evaluate published research including knowledge of mixed-methods approach and thematic analysis. Such skills and knowledge should allow new graduates to reach the required standards for registration.

Author Biographies

Devdu Namadini Rathnasiri, Monash University

Department of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences

Bachelor of Radiography and Medical Imaging undergraduate student

Imelda Josephine Williams, Monash University

Department of Medical Imaging and Radiation Sciences

Course Convenor: Bachelor of Radiography and Medical Imaging

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Published

2015-11-23

Issue

Vol. 53 No. 2 (2015)

Section

Article of Interest

License

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