Pandem-Sim: Development and Pilot Testing of a Live Simulation of Infectious Disease Outbreaks.

Charles A Wood,Debbie Tyrrell,Jackie Shia,Laura Ondeck,Lori Kudlak,Manetta Calinger

doi:10.15695/jstem/v1i1.15

Abstract

Pandem-Sim is a live, distance-learning simulation where 10th-12th grade students perform as epidemiologists to investigate infectious disease outbreaks. Prior to a mission, teachers review content and introduce students to the sim interfaces. During the mission students analyze data concerning demographics, symptoms and patient histories for a disease outbreak somewhere in the world. Student teams make initial diagnoses and order medical tests. If the tests do not confirm the diagnosis, the process is repeated. Following correct diagnosis, students identify the transmission method, prescribe treatments, recommend procedures to contain the outbreak, and issue a public health alert. During the 90 minute simulation the Chief Epidemiologist (a STEM educator at Wheeling Jesuit University) asks students critical thinking questions. Pilot tests were conducted at four schools (78 students) with data analyzed from pre-post surveys, classroom observations, interviews with Chief Epidemiologists and teachers, and detailed logs of student work. The first pilot test revealed needed revisions of procedures and teacher preparation, which were made before subsequent testing. Differences in students' pre and post surveys showed a small but statistically significant increase in content knowledge. Additionally, students reported that they enjoyed participating in the experience and it increased confidence in their abilities necessary to pursue a health related career.

Highlights

Excellent STEM programs are frequently introduced in specific cities or even in single schools, but often they are not available for use across the nation and are sometimes stopped when funding ends
Pilot tests were conducted at four schools (78 students) with data analyzed from pre-post surveys, classroom observations, interviews with Chief Epidemiologists and teachers, and detailed logs of student work
In CyberSurgeons, high school students portray medical personnel on a research ship traveling up the Amazon River, diagnosing medical maladies presented by crewmembers and Brazilian citizens along the shore

Summary

Introduction

Excellent STEM programs are frequently introduced in specific cities or even in single schools, but often they are not available for use across the nation and are sometimes stopped when funding ends. Abstract: Pandem-Sim is a live, distance-learning simulation where 10th-12th grade students perform as epidemiologists to investigate infectious disease outbreaks. Pilot tests were conducted at four schools (78 students) with data analyzed from pre-post surveys, classroom observations, interviews with Chief Epidemiologists and teachers, and detailed logs of student work.

Results

Conclusion