Abstract
The objective of the study was to describe the concept of a “development work thesis” (DWT) and explain, from an educator’s viewpoint, its use as a tool for continuing professional development in specialized studies in point-of-care testing (POCT). The data were collected from three focus group interviews conducted in degree programmes involving Biomedical Laboratory Sciences in the Finnish University of Applied Sciences in January 2010. The data were examined using inductive content analysis. The application of development work theses in specialized studies of point-of-care testing was divided into four categories: 1) Connection with the world of work; 2) Implementation of DWT recommendations; 3) Challenges associated with development work; and 4) Suggestions for future specialized studies. In conclusion from educators’ points of view, development work theses offer a functional tool for use in the continuing professional development of biomedical laboratory scientists. The main challenges in education linked to specialized studies will be agreeing with common guidelines and defining policy, and ensuring competence in methodology.
Key words: biomedical laboratory scientist, continuing professional development, education, point-of-care testing