[Application of virtual simulation technology in epidemiology education: a systematic review]

Area of Science:

• Public Health Education
• Medical Simulation
• Epidemiological Pedagogy

Background:

• Virtual simulation technology (VST) is emerging in epidemiology education.
• Current applications focus on enhancing visualization and practical skills in a controlled environment.
• VST offers advantages in overcoming time, space, cost, and risk limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the progress, benefits, drawbacks, and future trends of VST in epidemiology teaching.
• To analyze existing virtual simulation teaching projects in epidemiology.
• To identify key areas for development and integration of VST in public health education.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature retrieval across multiple databases (PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, CNKI, Wanfang, VIP).
• Keywords: epidemiology, teaching, virtual simulation.
• Narrative integration method for literature screening, classification, and analysis of Chinese virtual simulation teaching platforms.

Main Results:

• 22 articles were included (7 Chinese, 15 English), primarily focusing on Public Health students.
• VST is in its early stages, with moderate interaction levels.
• Key applications include visualizing complex concepts, skills training in low-risk settings, and supplementing field investigations/emergency response training.

Conclusions:

• VST is crucial for training applied public health professionals.
• Active implementation of VST in epidemiology is encouraged to cultivate public health talent.
• Further research should focus on optimizing development, program design, cost-effectiveness, and curriculum integration.