When virtual reality meets informatics: Teaching health informatics using Second Life

This paper discusses lessons learned from the adoption of virtual learning environment and social media to improve delivery of a federally-funded MS in Applied Health Informatics curriculum in training workforce with the knowledge and skills to assess, implement, maintain and evaluate Electronic Health Records and computerized HIS. The program requires 12 courses, with each course consists of didactic and lab coursework. http://www.uthouston.edu/sbmi/education/applied The courses cover a broad array of areas such as primary care facilities, health information security protocols, health program evaluation, project management, and change management. The program includes both synchronous instruction (including live interactions and presentations using Avatars in Second Life) and asynchronous interactions (e.g., forum, quiz, written assignments, emails on the Moodles, and Webblogs) for students to share educational materials. The combined modality is gaining acceptance by educators to deliver course content, create health care simulations, and develop informatics literacy skills. The preliminary results based on first semester of implementation provided improved effectiveness and efficiency of informatics course delivery. The modality appeared to effectuate higher level of engagement and interactions among students and instructors, with improved retention and attendance of classes. Many students appeared more comfortable in presentation and interactions. Moreover, in virtual learning activities we learned to tie learning activities to informatics competencies and used activities to improve navigation around virtual world and social media. With the potential in improving informatics curriculum delivery and the implications for use in education, the need to critically evaluate any application before introducing into the classroom could be critical.