A trial published in the International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics lends support to the idea that 3D virtual reality lessons can improve medical students’ retention of knowledge and understanding of complex topics in obstetrics and gynaecology.
For the study, 21 students took part in a 15-minute virtual reality learning environment (VRLE) experience on the stages of foetal development, while 20 students received a PowerPoint tutorial on the same topic, serving as a control.
While the students’ level of knowledge increased after both learning experiences, it was only retained in the VRLE group at one-week follow up. Questionnaires completed by participants reflected a high degree of satisfaction with the VRLE tool compared with the traditional tutorial.
“Virtual reality learning tools hold potential to enhance student learning and are very well received by students,” said corresponding author Fionnuala McAuliffe, MD, of University College Dublin National Maternity Hospital, in Ireland.
Source: Wiley
