The document describes physics workshops designed to help radiotherapy students who struggle with the physics aspects of their course. A series of workshops on topics like atomic structure, the electromagnetic spectrum, and Rutherford scattering were conducted using activities and demonstrations. Student feedback found the workshops increased understanding of physics concepts but did not clearly relate to radiotherapy. Future workshops aim to better integrate radiotherapy applications and module content to improve relevance for students.
6. Anatomical sciences Physical Sciences, Behavioural Sciences BSc (Hons) Radiotherapy ONCOLOGY AND RADIOTHERAPY Professional Studies Research, Communications Clinical Skills. Extensive and diverse training Integrated approach enabling students to relate academic work to clinical experience Inter-professional learning opportunities
7. What’s the problem? GCSE Grade B Maths 260 UCAS points ( B, C, C) Biology, and/or Physics and Maths High attrition rates across AHP courses Struggle with Radiation Science and Radiotherapy Technology Year 1 Potentially lose good students Confidence/Enthusiasm
8. The Story so far.... Questionnaires at the beginning of Sem 2 Yr 1 Strongly Neither Strongly Disagree Agree State previous physics qualifications Q1. ‘I feel confident when asked a physics based question’. 50% Disagree ( all GCSE physics only) Most confident = A Level Physics students Pleasingly the majority understood why it was part of the programme. Majority felt they could learn better by carrying out a practical task- there were no physics practicals! 1 3 5
9. Hand over to the POGs Last T&L conference we saw something different and perhaps a chance to change ....
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11. Physics OlympicsInduction Event in September 2010 Flags Code Event Fire the Rocket Introductory Lab Session Body Parts Event Angles Refresher
21. Results “More about the structure of the atom, back scattering.” “They were well explained but didn’t really seem related to our course.” “I understand the basic physics more but I don't see the relevance to the course.” “These sessions have helped me to build my knowledge so far on the course.”
22. Results “If there were more about physics related to radiotherapy.” “Yes, more aspects of physics we will all deal with in radiotherapy everyday.” “If I did I think it would be more helpful if it were more relevant to the work done this semester.”
23. Results “Quite Boring and Difficult.” “I feel I understand it more.” “Still a tough subject but isn’t as rigid as I first thought.” Total Positive After “I still hate physics.” “Hate Physics!” After Workshops “Numbers and Equations” “Absolutely love it.” Before Workshops
24. Questionnaire findings Students found it difficult to relate physics to Radiotherapy. 96% of students felt more positive about physics afterwards 90% of students felt the workshops were relevant 60% of students enjoyed the workshops Minority felt the workshops were not helpful (14% activities and 7% labs)
