Monash University

SOLAR evaluation

Introduction:
The Master of Radiation Therapy is a two-year graduate entry degree, which is undertaken part-time, by students in Victoria, Western Australia, Queensland and Tasmania. The course is supported by distance education and along with comprehensive academic and clinical practice components, also utilises the SOLAR (Student Orientated Learning About Radiotherapy) on-line computer program. The program has been developed based on the theory of problem based learning and asks students to respond to different clinical scenarios, compare their responses to those supplied by expert practitioners, and write reflective comparative reports based on this experience.

Aim:
This paper aims to present findings from a small scale study designed to critically analyse the structure and content of SOLAR, evaluate it's effectiveness as a problem-based learning tool and assess the level of student satisfaction with the program. The study will also provide recommendations for possible future developments and use of SOLAR.

Method:
A survey was developed and delivered to all current students, and included questions regarding the use of SOLAR, it's effectiveness as a learning tool and possible future directions of the program. The survey included a number of qualitative questions that encouraged students to make additional comments on their experiences with SOLAR. An extensive literature review was also conducted to analyse the rationale, implementation and delivery of problem-based learning and distance education programs.

Results: The results will be discussed during the presentation.