Keys to educator effectiveness in radiology.

ABSTRACT

Knowing what makes an educator effective is a key step in becoming an effective educator. There is a paucity of literature on this subject related specifically to radiology, but the tenets of effective teaching and learning can be applied to all educational domains. The desired outcome of all educators is motivation of students to learn. Put in this perspective, the primary role of the teacher is that of a facilitator. The teacher must possess enough knowledge in his or her domain to demonstrate credibility to students. He or she must be able to create effective learning environments and effectively communicate with students. In addition to demonstrating these and other skills, an effective educator must act as a role model for professional behavior. By doing so, he or she encourages students to become life-long learners who will make positive contributions to the world in which they live and work.