RAD 314-Introduction to Computers and Digital Radiography Terminology
Course Number & Title: RAD 314: Introduction to Computers and Digital Radiography Terminology
Instructor: Frank A. Zaleski, LMSW, MBA, BS, RT (R) – Director - fzaleski@northwell.edu
Prerequisite Courses: RAD 300, RAD 301, RAD 302, RAD 303, RAD 304, RAD 305, RAD 306, RAD 307 and RAD 308
Corequisite Courses: RAD 309, RAD 310, RAD 311, RAD 312, RAD 313, RAD 315, RAD 316, and RAD 317
Quarter: 2
Meeting Times: Wednesdays, 9:00 – 10:00AM *ONLINE*
10 HOURS TOTAL FOR QUARTER
Course Description: The use of computers in Radiologic Technology has increased exponentially throughout the years. Students will have a basic understanding of the components of a computer and their function are included in this course. The course defines and explains the concept of digital radiography. The course describes differences between analog and digital imaging with emphasis on technique considerations regarding patient dose reduction. The course also emphasizes the performance of radiologic exams that reflect those in imaging departments. Then, the course describes specialized imaging modalities and includes concepts and theories of equipment operations, positioning and examination considerations, and their integration for medical diagnosis. The student will be expected to apply the knowledge from Radiographic Physics and Image Production and Radiographic Technique to this course.
Required Textbooks: Digital Radiography and PACS, 4th Edition, Carter & Veale’.
Library: An electronic journal library is available on all Northwell computers for student use.
Required Materials: Pens, pencils, notebook, calculator
Methods of Instruction: Lectures, Class Participation, Homework, Classwork, Demonstrations of Skillsets Achieved
Course Objectives:
1. The student should be able to define digital radiography.
2. The student should be able to define PACS.
3. The student should be able to describe the major components of a computer.
4. The student should develop a working vocabulary of the components of a computer.
5. The student should distinguish between hardware and software.
6. The student should define networks and DICOM.
7. The student should be able to compare and contrast the latent image formation process for storage phosphor, flat panel with thin-film transistors, and charge-coupled device digital imaging systems.
8. The student should be able to define pixel, image matrix, and characteristics of each.
9. The student should develop a working vocabulary of the frequent terms used with components of digital radiography, including but not limited to brightness, contrast resolution, spatial resolution, image noise, modulation transfer function, and detective quantum efficiency.
10. The student should develop a perspective on exposure latitude and the differences between film-screen and digital radiography.