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Innovative Education and Engagement Tools for Rheumatology and Immunology Public Engagement with Augmented Reality
Timea Kosa1,2, Louise Bennett3, Daniel Livingstone4
1Institute of Infection, Immunity and Inflammation, University of Glasgow, 120 University Place, Glasgow, G12 8TA, UK. timeakosa@outlook.com.
Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology
|January 3, 2020
Summary
Public awareness of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is crucial for early diagnosis. Augmented reality (AR) offers an engaging way to educate the public about complex conditions like RA, improving understanding and engagement.
Area of Science:
- Public health
- Medical education
- Human-computer interaction
Background:
- Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) impacts 1% of the population, causing significant societal and individual burdens.
- Early diagnosis and treatment of RA are key to achieving long-term remission.
- Public awareness initiatives are vital to reduce diagnostic delays for RA.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the use of augmented reality (AR) for public engagement with rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
- To design, develop, and evaluate a blended learning experience combining printed materials with an interactive AR application for RA education.
Main Methods:
- Developed informative printed posters integrated with an interactive AR application.
- Conducted user testing with 27 participants at a science outreach event at the Glasgow Science Centre.
- Collected feedback on user attitudes towards the AR experience for RA public engagement.
Main Results:
- Participants reported positive attitudes across all evaluated aspects of the AR-enhanced learning experience.
- The study highlights the potential of AR to effectively engage the public with complex health topics like RA.
- The blended learning approach demonstrated user interest and positive reception.
Conclusions:
- Augmented reality (AR) shows significant promise as a tool for public engagement and education on rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
- Interactive AR applications can enhance understanding of complex medical information and improve public health literacy.
- This approach offers a novel and effective method for science outreach and health awareness campaigns.