Development, Feasibility, and Acceptability of a Novel Augmented Reality Medical Simulator

• Main Author: Caruso, Thomas Jon
• Format: Dissertation
• Language: English
• Published: ProQuest LLC 2023
• Subjects: Computer Simulation; Educational Benefits; Experiential Learning; Eye Movements; Instructional Effectiveness; Learner Engagement; Learning Theories; Medical Education; Medical Students; Teaching Methods
• ISBN: 9798379470739

Given the expanding field of education within medicine, the purpose of this dissertation is to introduce an augmented reality (AR) medical simulator to the medical education community. This dissertation will describe the simulator development, feasibility, and acceptability to medical students and medical trainees. The following series of studies is presented about the AR Simulator. First, we review the learning theories behind experiential education that form the foundation for the area of study (Chapter 2). Then, a technical description of the development of the gaze tracking was conducted to validate the software by which future learning outcomes are judged (Chapter 3). Second, a qualitative study announced the acceptability and feasibility of a multiplayer AR medical simulator to medical students (Chapter 4). Following the qualitative study, two mixed method studies of the effectiveness of the simulator were conducted (Chapter 5 and 6). These mixed method investigations explore engagement, limitations, and advantages of the learning tool. The results of the investigations demonstrate that the AR simulator is technically facile, accepted by learners, and has the potential to transform traditional medical simulation. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]