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Updated: Jan 25, 2026

Online Explorative Study on the Learning Uses of Virtual Reality Among Early Adopters
Published on: November 22, 2019
Utilization of an online module bank for a research training curriculum: development, implementation, evolution,
Kara E Sawarynski1, Dwayne M Baxa1
1a Department of Foundational Medical Studies , Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine , Rochester , MI , USA.
Online modules enhance medical education by offering flexible, individualized learning. Student engagement increased significantly after implementation, highlighting the value of just-in-time access and personalized content.
Area of Science:
- Medical Education Technology
- Curriculum Development
- Student Learning Analytics
Background:
- Oakland University William Beaumont School of Medicine's Embark program accommodates varying student research experience levels.
- A flexible, self-directed curriculum personalization approach is facilitated through online modules since 2014.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate student utilization patterns of online educational modules.
- To identify module strengths and preferred attributes for optimizing just-in-time learning.
- To inform best practices for meeting diverse student needs in medical education.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective mixed methods analysis of module library usage and student evaluations (2014-2017).
- Analysis of student viewing patterns and conjoint analysis to determine module preferences.
- Evaluation of course evaluations to assess impact on milestone preparation.
Main Results:
- Student milestone preparation was not negatively impacted by shifting content to online modules.
- Module viewing increased from 10% (2014) to 71% (2016) post-implementation changes, indicating higher engagement.
- Students identified modules as a key strength for individualizing their learning, citing content flexibility and just-in-time access; preferences included animated, shorter, and externally curated content.
Conclusions:
- Online modules offer a robust resource for personalized medical education.
- Implementation insights emphasize the importance of monitoring usage, learner feedback, and content appreciation for similar educational technology projects.
- Lessons learned may be transferable across various educational disciplines.
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