A Unique Virtual Learning Class has been Launched at TNMU

On January 15, 2021, a virtual education class has been launched in Ternopil National Medical University. It is equipped with special 3-D glasses – twelve Google Daydream and three Oculus Quest. The latest devices benefit students to examine in detail the various anatomical models in the 3-D dimension, to model surgical interventions and various clinical situations in the virtual reality. The class also has powerful specialized up-to-date computers that provide support for relevant software products and operation of the entire network. This learning space is so special because students can use unique software developments, some of which are already available in TNMU. For a long time the specialists of the Centre for Medical Simulation of Ternopil Medical University studied the world software market for virtual medical education. Taking into account the needs of the educational process in TNMU, the best developments have been selected and already implemented in the classroom of virtual learning. For other, consultations and analysis are still taking place; once they are completed they will be used in training.

In the virtual learning class, the students can study human anatomy in the 3-D dimension and see all organs in the smallest details and three-dimensionally. They can see how a physiological process takes place in the human body. Each organ can be examined from the inside; it can be virtually examined from all sides; its functionality, pathological changes can be evidenced as well.

Also, various simulation scenarios in emergency medicine can be worked out to practice medical care providing at the pre-hospital and early hospital stages. This software enables creating various virtual situations and students must provide real-time assistance with special glasses and joysticks. They can perform tracheal intubation, defibrillation, examine the patient, palpate, measure pulse, perform auscultation of the lungs and heart, carry out laboratory tests and analyse them. All this is supplemented with appropriate audio and graphic.

In the virtual learning class students also can help patients with COVID-19. They can go through virtual training on wearing personal protective equipment for medical staff according to current protocols, learn how to properly take material for PCR diagnostics, how to examine such a patient and how to provide medical care to them.

This class has a multi-player option, i.e. at the same time the whole group of students can perform a clinical scenario, provide assistance to one patient and work in a team, make diagnosis, develop treatment tactics.

Yanina Chaikivska, TNMU Press Secretary.

Photos by the author