Examining the benefits of industry clinical placements for medical laboratory science academics

Industry placements are central to Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) student training, yet their value as professional development for MLS academics has not been well described.

A cross-sectional survey was conducted across Australian universities offering Australian Institute of Medical and Clinical Scientists-accredited MLS programs. Two online surveys captured MLS academics' and program leaders' perceptions of the benefits, feasibility, and implementation considerations of academic clinical placements.

Among 29 academics (35% response rate) and 10 program leaders (83% response rate), hematology was the most common teaching area (30%). Most (79%) academics reported prior clinical pathology experience, with more than half reporting at least 10 years of experience. Maintaining clinical currency was rated extremely important, and placements were perceived as beneficial for teaching and student learning. Preferences centered on short placements (≤2 weeks), conducted annually or biannually, and participation likelihood increased with departmental support and short durations. Program leaders expressed unanimous support for placements to enhance curriculum alignment, student engagement, and technological currency. They also recognized the benefit for university-industry partnerships and skill development.

Academic clinical placements are widely perceived by both academics and program leaders as educationally valuable, enhancing teaching, student learning, and curriculum alignment with industry practices.