Digitalization through the use of Ren'Py-Based interactive learning experiences in physiotherapy and rehabilitation...

Area of Science:

• Health Professions Education
• Digital Learning Technologies
• Physiotherapy Training

Background:

• Digital technologies are increasingly vital in health professions education for engagement and diverse learning.
• Conventional methods in physiotherapy electrotherapy may limit active learning and retention.
• Game-based platforms like Ren'Py offer potential for interactive, scenario-based learning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of Ren'Py-based digital materials on learning outcomes in undergraduate physiotherapy.
• To compare the effectiveness of conventional, digital-only, and hybrid teaching models in electrotherapy education.

Main Methods:

• A single-blind, three-arm randomized controlled trial involving 80 physiotherapy students.
• Students were assigned to Conventional Education Group (CEG), Digital Education Group (DEG), or Conventional and Digital Education Group (CaDEG).
• Outcomes measured included exam scores, cognitive load, attitudes towards physiotherapy, and motivation for educational materials.

Main Results:

• Practical exam scores were significantly higher in CEG and CaDEG compared to DEG.
• Cognitive load was significantly higher in CEG than in DEG and CaDEG.
• Motivation for educational materials (IMMS) was significantly higher in CaDEG than in CEG.

Conclusions:

• Hybrid and face-to-face models are more effective than digital-only instruction for practical physiotherapy skills.
• The hybrid model effectively reduced cognitive load and increased student motivation.
• Integrating digital tools like Ren'Py as complements to conventional teaching can enhance learning outcomes.