The Development of a Virtual World Problem-Based Learning Tutorial and Comparison With Interactive Text-Based...

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Digital Learning Environments
• Collaborative Learning

Background:

• Collaborative learning, particularly problem-based learning (PBL), enhances workplace knowledge acquisition.
• Decision-based PBL (D-PBL) using web-based virtual patients (VPs) was developed for undergraduate medical training.
• Students found D-PBL more engaging and demonstrated improved exam performance compared to traditional methods.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the use of Second Life (SL), a 3D virtual world, for delivering D-PBL.
• To compare student engagement and realism between SL-based D-PBL and existing web-based VPs.
• To assess the feasibility of using 3D environments for scalable PBL sessions.

Main Methods:

• Eighteen tutorial groups experienced the same patient scenario in separate SL locations.
• Student feedback was collected on the realism and usability of the SL environment.
• Comparison was made with previous experiences using interactive web-based VPs.

Main Results:

• A minority of students found the Second Life experience more realistic.
• Most students did not perceive SL as more realistic than web-based VPs.
• Students preferred the simpler interaction of web-based VPs, citing exam proximity and interface learning curve.

Conclusions:

• Web-based VPs provide essential learning for medical practice effectively.
• While 3D environments offer potential, simpler interfaces may be more practical for current student needs.
• The study suggests a scalable process for future 3D PBL implementations exists.