Designing a procurement and selection procedure for prospective students in radiography

Abstract

Although there are too many applicants for the number of posts available in radiography courses, the standard of the applicants has not improved and the rates of attrition have not decreased. The problem was investigated against the background of South Africa and the 21st century, with particular reference to manpower needs, demography, population trends, education, health and the economy. An attempt was, therefore, made to provide recommendations to improve the situation in radiography. Before the research was conducted, the background of radiography, pertaining to South Africa was sketched. Reference was made to the various international organisations which had contributed to the development of the profession of radiography in this country. The position of the technikons, as tertiary education institutions was highlighted and their relation to radiography training mentioned. To understand the close liaison between the technikons and the employers of student radiographers, the present position of radiography as a vocation and as a profession, and of radiographers as professionals, was discussed. This included the concept of co-operative education and experiential training. The significance of technology versus human beings, and of its relevance to education, radiography and science was explored to illustrate the background for which procurement and selection must be made. Principles of procurement relevant to radiography were then discussed. Particular mention Was made of the need for a job analysis and its constituent description and specifications regarding selection of students.