Innovative teaching in legal medicine through forensic simulation: a case-based educational project

Area of Science:

• Medical Education
• Forensic Science
• Simulation-Based Learning

Background:

• Traditional forensic medicine education in Italy is primarily theory-based.
• Limited access to practical experience due to confidentiality and case complexity.
• Need for innovative teaching methods to bridge the theory-practice gap.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe a novel forensic simulation for medical students.
• To provide a structured environment for applying theoretical forensic knowledge.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of simulation in enhancing practical skills.

Main Methods:

• A staged homicide simulation was conducted at a Clinical Simulation Center.
• Involved preliminary briefing, interactive role-playing with actors and students, and structured debriefing.
• Focused on crime scene investigation, evidence collection, and testimony analysis.

Main Results:

• Students developed and refined skills in key areas of forensic investigation.
• Feedback indicated simulation enhanced critical thinking, decision-making, and teamwork.
• Simulation-based learning proved a valuable supplement to traditional methods.

Conclusions:

• Forensic simulation offers a practical and effective learning experience.
• This method addresses limitations of traditional theory-based education.
• Future integration of VR and AI can further enhance simulation realism and accessibility.