Virtual Patient Journey: a novel learning resource.

Area of Science:

• Medical Education Technology
• Clinical Skills Training
• Digital Health Interventions

Background:

• Virtual Patient Journey (VPJ) is a new online educational tool.
• VPJ integrates first-person videos with interactive decision-making.
• It allows students to assume the role of a healthcare professional.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the efficacy of the VPJ format against standard teaching tutorials.
• To evaluate the impact of VPJ on medical student learning and confidence.
• To assess student engagement with the VPJ resource.

Main Methods:

• Third-year medical students were divided into two groups: VPJ and traditional tutorial.
• Both groups received identical material coverage and duration.
• Knowledge and confidence gains were measured using pre- and post-tests.

Main Results:

• The VPJ group showed a slightly higher average knowledge gain (39%) than the tutorial group (35%).
• Confidence increased more significantly in the VPJ group (2.4/10) compared to the tutorial group (1.8/10).
• A high percentage of VPJ users (92%) found it useful and (96%) enjoyed the experience.

Conclusions:

• VPJ provides valuable exposure to clinical scenarios, potentially exceeding traditional placements.
• This novel approach can enhance core competencies and patient care responsibility in a safe setting.
• VPJ offers a flexible and engaging alternative to rigid virtual patient models in medical training.