Invisible Frontliners in the Eyes of the Youth: Perceptions of Grade 12 Students on Radiologic Technologists
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.22673481Keywords:
Radiologic Technology, student perception, media exposure, knowledge, stereotypes, professional recognition, career intentionAbstract
In the context of growing interest in healthcare careers and the importance of accurate career awareness among senior high school students, this study explored the perception of Grade 12 students on Radiologic Technologists as healthcare professionals, focusing on how learning experiences and media exposure influence their knowledge, stereotypes, perceived recognition, and career intention toward Radiologic Technology. The respondents comprised 222 Grade 12 students from the University of Perpetual Help System DALTA (UPHSD) Calamba Campus, exceeding the required sample size of 187. Data were collected using a structured survey questionnaire measuring demographic profile, level of learning and media exposure, knowledge about the profession, stereotypes, perceived professional recognition, and career intention. Findings revealed that respondents demonstrated moderate to high levels of awareness of the profession. However, misconceptions and stereotypes persisted, particularly the perception that Radiologic Technologists are limited to technical tasks rather than being integral members of the healthcare team. Learning experiences and media exposure significantly influenced students' knowledge and stereotypes, with greater exposure leading to a more accurate understanding of the profession. Knowledge and stereotypes were found to significantly predict students' perceived professional recognition and their intention to pursue Radiologic Technology as a career. Analysis of perceptions across demographic profiles revealed significant differences in selected variables, particularly in the academic strand. Based on these findings, the study proposes strategies to strengthen career orientation programs, enhance media representation of Radiologic Technology, and integrate comprehensive information about the profession to improve awareness, reduce misconceptions, and increase students' interest in pursuing Radiologic Technology.
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