COM Outlook Winter 2020

14 | DR. KIRAN C. PATEL COLLEGE OF OSTEOPATHIC MEDICINE Technology Overhaul Augments Student Learning Thanks to the generosity of the Patel Family Foundation, students at both the Fort Lauderdale/Davie and Tampa Bay Regional campus- es are benefiting from a major tech- nological revamp that is allowing them to learn in exciting new ways. For example, KPCOM students now learn dissection techniques by working with a 3-D virtual cadaver, although they can partici- pate in optional human cadaver labs. Learning opportunities are also enhanced via forthcoming holographic videoconferencing, the multifaceted use of interactive simulated manikins, virtual reality, and 3-D printing. In today’s society, technologi- cal advances occur daily—and at warp-speed frequency—which explains why the KPCOM is constantly on the hunt for ways to keep its curriculum as current as possible. “In the past, medical education was mostly limited to PowerPoint presentations and confined to the status-quo lab experience, which limits students’ engagement and retention,” said Elizabeth Oviawe, Ph.D., Ed.S., M.S.B.I., M.M.I.S., M.Sc., director of the KPCOM’s Division of Institutional Technology. “Over the years, simulation experiences that incorporate the use of high-fidelity manikins and human patients who act as real patients through role-play have helped improve students’ learn- ing; however, there are still some limitations,” she added. “The introduction of immersive-learn- ing technology in the use of 3-D virtual reality (VR), augmented reality, and mixed-reality holo- graphic experiences—blended with high-fidelity manikins and role-play patients—is bringing the didactic experience to life.” Virtual Cadavers and Microscopes When the fall 2019 semester commenced, KPCOM students were introduced to BodyViz— a 3-D virtual cadaver-MRI/CT virtualization technology. BodyViz uses high-end per- formance gaming laptops, a stereoscopic 3-D projector, 3-D glasses, and a Microsoft Xbox One, so students can not only perform virtual dissections, but also render MRI and CT data and reference modules that let them observe joint movements or see structures not visible in real-life cadavers. Below is an overview of addi- tional technologies that have been, or soon will be, implemented at both campuses. Panasonic 3-D Multiview Anatomy is a multilayered, 3-D dissection of anatomy images that makes it easier for students to understand the geographic relationship inside the body. It includes transparent interlayer overlay; a multilayer dissection; and high-resolution 3-D images viewed through 3-D glasses. Biolucida is a virtual micro- scopy technology that simulates the experience of using a micro- scope. It consists of more than 3,300 virtual microscope slides and enables educators to reach more students and deliver content that is more dynamic. BY SCOTT COLTON, B.A., APR AND (continued on page 16)