By Brigid Muir
Noosa District State High School Year 11 Social and Community Studies students were enthralled learning about radiography, thanks to guest speaker Wibke James.
Radiographer Ms James visited the class as part of the students’ study this term of the world of work.
She spoke to the students about her training and ongoing studies, the profession itself, and some of the challenges of the job.
Ms James decided she wanted to be a radiographer after fracturing her finger at the age of 12 and experiencing a great deal of pain while her x-rays were taken.
“She wasn’t a good radiographer, and I decided then and there that I could do a much better job. And now, I do,” Ms James said.
A four-year university degree attained in her home country of Germany was deemed as an insufficient qualification in Australia, and Ms James was required to complete the same degree (and another four years of study), when she arrived in Australia in 2009.
“It wasn’t easy a second time around. The technology we work with constantly changes, and to complicate things further, I was learning this time around in English, which is not my native language,” Ms James said.
Ms James showed the students x-rays and CT scans and explained how different imaging is utilised to form diagnosis.
“Due to a shortage of radiologists in the UK, highly qualified radiographers are now able to state immediate findings on plain x-ray films. This is no substitute for a doctor’s report, but helps in managing potential fractures immediately and lightens the workload on radiologists. Hopefully, we’ll be able to do something similar in Australia in the nearer future,” Ms James said.
New technologies, including virtual fly-throughs of organs were discussed.
“Radiographers must keep up with the new technology. Things are changing fast in this profession,” Ms James said.
The students were fascinated with Ms James’ personal narrative on her career.
“I really enjoyed the opportunity to share my profession,” Ms James said.
Many Year 11 students are now considering careers in the healthcare industry, and they were grateful for Ms Wibke’s insights.
