Introducing clinical laboratory science: CLS students help shape the future.

Area of Science:

• Clinical Laboratory Science Education
• Medical Laboratory Professions
• Health Sciences Education

Background:

• The clinical laboratory science (CLS) profession faces challenges in attracting young talent.
• Early exposure to CLS can broaden career options for students.
• A need exists to increase the visibility of CLS among youth.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy of CLS students in applying educational methodologies to teach CLS disciplines.
• To determine if student-led presentations generate interest in the CLS profession.
• To evaluate the impact of a redesigned recruitment program on middle and secondary school students' career considerations.

Main Methods:

• CLS students received training in educational methodologies within a laboratory management course.
• Students developed and delivered a 10-day curriculum on CLS topics to younger students.
• Participant feedback and faculty assessments were collected using Likert-scaled questionnaires.

Main Results:

• CLS faculty reported high student competence in curriculum design and professional presentation.
• High satisfaction rates (84-85%) were reported by student participants.
• The program's success led to its adoption in other university initiatives.

Conclusions:

• CLS students can effectively utilize educational methodologies to teach CLS concepts.
• Early introduction to CLS disciplines through student-led programs fosters interest in the profession.
• The program serves as an effective recruitment tool, encouraging further exploration of CLS careers.