Learning patient care through role play

Is patient care a subject that can be taught and learned effectively through the traditional mode of lecture delivery? Are students able to learn and understand the concept of patient care in a classroom setting, subsequently applying their understanding in a clinical environment? Since 1995, role play has been used successfully in Curtin. as an effective learning and teaching strategy in the subject of patient care. When used appropriately, role play provides an alternative and effective method of assessment, relieving the students from the monotony of assignment writing. It is also a useful means of promoting generic and communication skills. This article will describe how role play is conducted in the Medical Imaging curriculum at Curtin University of Technology. The responses of the first year medical imaging students to the use of role play are included and are overwhelmingly positive.