SPJ Publication
Innovative Journal of Medical Imaging
Open Access Original Research

Enhancing CT and MRI Positioning Competency Through Virtual Simulation: A Prospective Educational Study

*, Akash Mondal

* Corresponding author: Subodh Kumar Singh

Copyright © 2026. The Author (s)

DOI10.62502/ijmi/v3i2art3
Pages 15–20Language ENLicenceCC BY-NC 4.0 Crossmark XML metadata
  1. Received28 Mar 2026
  2. Accepted25 May 2026
  3. Published25 Jun 2026

Abstract

Background: Computed Tomography (CT) and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) positioning require a combination of theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Traditional teaching methods may offer limited opportunities for repeated hands-on practice.

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of virtual simulation-based training in improving CT and MRI positioning knowledge and practical competency among undergraduate radiography students.

Methods: A prospective pre-test and post-test educational intervention study was conducted among 30 undergraduate radiography students. Participants completed a four-week virtual simulation training program consisting of CT and MRI positioning modules. Knowledge was assessed using a 25-item multiple-choice questionnaire, while practical competency was evaluated through an Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE)-based assessment within the simulation environment. Student perceptions regarding the learning experience were also collected using a structured questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and paired t-tests, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.

Results: All 30 participants completed the study. The mean knowledge score increased significantly from 13.8 ± 2.9 before training to 21.2 ± 2.1 after training (p < 0.001). Similarly, the mean practical competency score improved from 14.6 ± 3.2 to 23.4 ± 2.8 (p < 0.001). More than 90% of students reported increased confidence, improved understanding of CT and MRI positioning procedures, and satisfaction with the simulation-based learning experience. Most participants recommended the integration of simulation training into the radiography curriculum.

Conclusion: Virtual simulation-based training significantly improved both theoretical knowledge and practical competency in CT and MRI positioning among undergraduate radiography students. The findings support the incorporation of simulation-based learning as a valuable supplement to traditional radiography education.

Keywords

Virtual simulationRadiography educationComputed tomographyMagnetic resonance imagingPositioning competency

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