Radiology - Integrated Training Initiative: R-ITI: The training

There has never been a more exciting time to train in Clinical Radiology. The innovative Radiology - Integrated Training Initiative (R-ITI) combines new technology with proven traditional training methods to deliver high quality education, structured around clear learning objectives.

Innovations offered by the R-ITI scheme include:

Three new state-of-the-art radiology academies
Self-assessment and online e-learning sessions
Skills labs, library resources and areas for peer-group work
Modern multimedia facilities for remote learning
The Validated Case Archive

What is Integrated Training?

The Integrated Training Approach (ITI) creates a stimulating learning environment by combining different teaching methods. These methods include:

e-learning
self-assessment using an archive of validated images (VCA)
formal assessments
skills labs
tutorials/lectures
clinical placements

Key principles of ITI are:

To use small groups and peer learning to enhance the learning experience
To use technology to extend the clinical learning environment
To reach larger numbers of trainees within the existing training structure
To extend the clinical environment by involving trainees in local service delivery
To provide more consistent training and effective resources

Trainees will gain a detailed understanding of:

Anatomy and pathology, as depicted by x-rays and other imaging techniques
Applied medicine and surgery, to select the best imaging technique for any clinical indication
Professional issues and competencies
Radiation physics, to optimise patient protection

Where does the training take place?

Three academies have been established, one in Leeds, one in Norfolk and Norwich and one in Plymouth. Each academy offers trainees access to:

computer linked e-learning sessions
the Validated Case Archive (VCA) where they can study images and films of actual cases alongside their pathologies and diagnoses
skills labs to practice practical techniques before going into clinics
library and tutorial/lecture room facilities

The academies are linked to departments of Clinical Radiology by sophisticated PACS links as well as by audio and video links, keeping trainees in constant contact with the clinical environment.

Working with Consultant Clinical Radiologists, trainees gradually increase their contribution to the clinical workload of the department. Trainees are also able to question the Consultant Radiologist directly about diagnostic decisions, imaging features and interpretations.

How do I apply?

One of the most exciting developments from the R-ITI project is the opening of three state of the art radiology academies. The academies are completely new facilities with separate infrastructures for training consultant radiologists and will be at the heart of delivering the Integrated Training Initiative approach.

View Leeds and West Yorkshire Radiology Academy to apply for training (opens in a new window).

View Norfolk & Norwich Radiology Academy to apply for training (opens in a new window).

View Peninsula Radiology Academy to apply for training (opens in a new window)

How long does training take and how is it structured?

Training takes place over five years following medical qualification and general professional post-graduate experience.

For the first three years, trainees will divide their time between the academy and core clinical rotations within training departments.

In the final two years, trainees will have the opportunity to hone general radiological skills in the clinical environment and to develop specialist skills in their chosen area.

How is the Integrated Training delivered?

Radiology training is a practical process that includes a series of:

structured rotations
formal lectures
online e-learning modules
self-assessment cases accessed through the Validated Case Archive
time spent 'shadowing' a qualified radiologist in their daily work

The learning material is authored by subject specialists from across the country, bringing a wealth of clinical experience within their respective specialties.

Symbiosis of academies with clinical rotations and e-learning sessions means that trainees can learn to specified and controlled standards before going into a clinical setting.

Remote learning

Using video and audio conferencing, trainers can conduct interactive tutorials for trainees in multiple locations. Case studies can be presented simultaneously to all those taking part.

E-learning

E-learning is a series of self-paced, self-directed, self-motivated learning and knowledge acquisition activities. Engaging interactive content can be delivered electronically to the learner at any PC. The learning activities take place within a managed learning environment that controls what is seen, when it’s seen and provides feedback and support to the trainee.

Interactive sessions can work to encourage the trainee to become practically involved in the knowledge acquisition process as well as thinking about clinical issues. Trainees can access the activities as many times as they wish from within the training scheme or from home.

E-learning is not a stand alone solution. Effective e-learning integrates self-study elements into other learning approaches such as lectures, seminars, reading, practical experience and tutorial support. E-learning can be used as a pre-cursor to a lecture or seminar and as a follow-up to other training methods. It enables the trainee to develop knowledge in their own time. More on e-learning.

Wider reading

Trainees can access online journals as well as hard copy documents to support and enhance their learning experience.

Personal review

Each trainee is reviewed and assessed by their personal tutor. Trainees evaluate their performance against agreed milestones.

The Validated Case Archive (VCA)

The Validated Case Archive (VCA) is a complex piece of software which has been developed specifically for the R-ITI project. It offers radiology trainees a high quality, user friendly simulation of the radiology reporting experience. Through the VCA, trainees will have access to annotated, high quality films and images of cases from across the UK.

Skills labs

Skills labs provide an ideal environment to develop the skills required to follow Clinical Radiology procedure. Proficiency in ultrasound and image guided techniques will prepare trainees for working in a clinical situation.