Impact of an X-ray scatter mobile application on radiation protection training: A user experience study

INTRODUCTION: This study aimed to assess the user experiences of radiography students and healthcare radiation professionals regarding an X-ray scatter application that uses augmented reality (AR) to present X-ray scatter maps on mobile devices. METHODS: A descriptive qualitative and quantitative study design was employed in two phases. Participants used the application either during the development phase (phase-1, n = 4) or as part of radiation protection training related to their studies or professional practice (phase-2, n = 100). Subsequently, participants took part in a thematic interview (phase-1) or completed an anonymous questionnaire (phase-2). The largest participant groups in the second phase were radiography students (n = 45), radiographers (n = 44), and physicians (n = 9). Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. RESULTS: Based on the first phase of the study, modifications were made to the application's user interface. In the second phase, the majority of responses to Likert-scale questions addressing the application's technical performance, visual appearance, and educational value were favourable. Overall, 91% and 87% of respondents either agreed or somewhat agreed with the statements "The app helped me conceptualise the behaviour of X-ray scatter" and "The app is a valuable addition to traditional radiation protection training", respectively. Similarly, 53% and 57% of respondents either agreed or somewhat agreed with the statements "The app worked as I wanted it to" and "The app was easy to use", respectively. CONCLUSION: Most respondents considered the application a valuable addition to traditional radiation protection training. With further development, its usability could be improved and a better focus on radiation protection training across different radiology specialties could be achieved. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: These findings support the use of AR-based applications as supplementary tools in radiation protection training for healthcare students and professionals.