Dissertation Abstract

How to Develop an Interactive MRI Brain Cross-Sectional Anatomy CD-ROM and Web-Based Educational Materials to Meet the Needs of Medical Imaging Specialists Working in Magnetic Resonance Imaging

The purpose of this research was to explore and identify the appropriate multimedia program for developing an educational tool in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Brain cross-sectional anatomy. The methodology used in this project was program evaluation. This project describes the processes involved in the development of an educational multi-medium tool on MRI brain cross-sectional anatomy that will be available on CD-ROM and is web-based. This multi-medium education program will target MRI technologists, radiologic technologists and other health care professionals wanting to expand their knowledge on the anatomy of the brain by visualizing MRI images.

In March 1995, the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) implemented an Advanced Level Examination in MRI. Medical facilities across the country are requiring their technologists to become ARRT registered, which is currently voluntary. This project provides a portion of the material that the technologists will be required to review through some type of educational format to successfully complete the examination. Continuing education credits are required by ARRT registered technologists to keep their licensure active. This multimedia educational program has been reviewed and forwarded for approval process for providing continuing education credits to radiologic technologists registered through the ARRT.

The researcher surveyed MRI students who attended a one or two week MRI course held in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The intent of this survey was to evaluate the quality and the usefulness of the current MRI course for those who have successfully passed the ARRT MRI registry.

The MRI program was developed with the authoring system Authorware and took approximately twelve months to develop. This included the time required for the researcher to develop skills in the authoring program.

The researcher also interviewed students of an MRI course after they evaluated a CD-ROM educational program on case studies in the medical imaging field. This interview assessed what the technologists were looking for in a multimedia educational program.

With the shortage of health care workers today, training through multimedia is essential for the future growth of this industry. Using technology for teaching new techniques can be a useful method of addressing the country wide staffing shortage.*

*This dissertation is a compound document (contains both a paper copy and a CD as part of the dissertation). The CD requires the following system requirement: Internet Browser.

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