Study on the acceptance of virtual reality as a complement to the study of human anatomy

Abstract

IntroductionInformation and communication technologies have demonstrated their utility adapted to Health Sciences, particularly from an educational perspective. Virtual reality (VR) has become a tool that catalyzes the acquisition of clinical skills before contact with the patient, increasing safety, dexterity in procedures, and reducing the possibility of errors or complications. However, these tools could also offer new approaches for teaching basic subjects for undergraduates (Anatomy, Histology, etc.) and the use of tablets, and especially smartphones, could act as a complementary educational incentive. MethodsTwo hundred seventy-four students from different levels of the degree in Medicine, were invited to use a VR app on their phones with stereoscopic goggles. The users immerse themselves in the bioscopic anatomy, navigating through different anatomical structures. ResultsThe questionnaire scores were, in general, above 4, reaffirming a positive opinion, except regarding the use of the tool for student exams. ConclusionUniversities could increase formative delivery at a reduced cost, while ensuring training quality. The proposed concept of VR also helps to provide a useful learning environment in the COVID-19 scenario. Our results show that the introduction of immersive technology associated with VR and smartphones for medical students can be a welcome complementary or alternative educational tool.