The perceived impact of industry laboratory excursion exposure among medical laboratory science students

Abstract

Undergraduate training in the Bachelor of Health Science (BHSc): Medical Laboratory Science (MLS) programme requires exposure to contemporary diagnostic technologies. However, infrastructure constraints within Universities of Technology (UoTs) may limit students’ access to modern laboratory systems. This study explored undergraduate MLS students’ perceptions of the impact of industry-based laboratory excursions on their learning experiences. A cross-sectional descriptive survey with a mixed-methods approach was employed among residential BHSc: MLS students at Levels 1–3 (N = 83) at Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT). A census sampling approach was used, and data were collected using a semi-structured questionnaire comprising Likert-scale items and open-ended questions. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively, while qualitative responses underwent thematic content analysis. Quantitative findings indicated that most students perceived laboratory excursions to enhance exposure to modern diagnostic technologies (M = 4.2 ± 1.0) and support the integration of theoretical knowledge with industry practice (M = 4.0 ± 1.3). Students also expressed strong support for incorporating excursions into the curriculum (M = 4.4 ± 1.2), while perceptions of practical skill development beyond university laboratories were variable (M = 3.3 ± 1.4). Qualitative findings indicated exposure to automation, digital diagnostics, laboratory workflows and equipment not readily available in university laboratories, alongside predominantly observational experiences. Students also identified areas for improving excursion structure and greater integration of industry-based learning within the curriculum.
Contribution: This study contributes empirical insight into how industry-based laboratory excursions are perceived to support experiential learning and curriculum enhancement in MLS programmes at UoTs.