Developing a Digital Health Metacademy for Continuing Professional Education.

Area of Science:

• Digital Health
• Medical Education
• Virtual Reality

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of online and hybrid educational models.
• The Metaverse has emerged as a significant area of interest for digital learning.
• Continuing Professional Education (CPE) in healthcare requires innovative and engaging platforms.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the perceptions and experiences of healthcare professionals and digital health practitioners using a novel Metaverse Academy (Metacademy).
• To evaluate the usability and effectiveness of Metacademy as a tool for Continuing Professional Education.

Main Methods:

• A pilot study was conducted involving healthcare professionals and digital health practitioners.
• Participants engaged with an in-house developed Metaverse Academy (Metacademy).
• Data were collected on user perceptions and experiences, referencing the Technology Acceptance Model.

Main Results:

• A majority (88.2%) found Metacademy fun and enjoyable for learning.
• Key factors rated highly included perceived usefulness (18.41±5.38) and perceived enjoyment (17.88±3.41).
• 100% agreed Metacademy is a useful learning tool with potential to enhance learning effectiveness.

Conclusions:

• The Metaverse Academy (Metacademy) is perceived positively by healthcare professionals for Continuing Professional Education.
• The platform demonstrates high potential for enhancing learning effectiveness in a digital environment.
• Findings support the integration of Metaverse technologies into professional development for healthcare.