Assessing Undergraduate Radiography Students’ Engagement with an Online Chest X-ray Quality Assessment Tool: Insights from Saudi Arabia

Introduction: For radiography students, mastering chest X-ray (CXR) quality evaluation is a fundamental skill that can be effectively developed through online platforms. This study aims to evaluate undergraduate radiography students’ experience with an online CXR quality assessment tool in Saudi Arabia while examining how factors such as academic performance, year level, and device preferences influence their learning outcomes. Materials and Methods: A convenience sample of 68 radiography students pursuing a bachelor’s degree at King Saud University was recruited. Students participated online using a cloud-based platform for radiology education and quality assessment (DetectedX) to assess CXR images. The study involved assessing 10 posterior-anterior and 10 lateral CXR projections. Participants evaluated the CXR image quality based on specific metrics, and upon completion, received immediate performance ratings. Results: The platform’s accessibility, navigation, and immediate feedback features were particularly well-received, with most students recommending it to peers. Regarding performance metrics, students’ accuracy in approving image quality significantly correlated with their ability to assess lung visibility and clarity ( P < 0.05). While tablet users ( n = 26) achieved higher scores (median = 60) compared to computer users ( n = 110, median = 40) in lung field evaluation ( P < 0.01), overall performance across comprehensive CXR assessment criteria showed no significant differences based on study year, grade point average (GPA), or device type (all P > 0.05). Conclusions: While students positively perceived the online tool, it is primarily a complementary educational resource. Students using tablets received better scores than students using computers. However, no significant differences were found in the performance based on study year, GPA, or device. Implications for practice The positive perception of the online chest X-ray assessment tool suggests that radiography programs should consider integrating similar digital platforms into their curricula to enhance student engagement and provide additional skill practice opportunities.