Modern teaching in Medicine and Health Sciences makes use of new tools that enable a faster and better learning, reducing risks for patients and optimizing efficiency in terms of cost. Many technologies are involved, from e-learning recources to the use of specific simulation devices which allow trainees to get acquainted with situations that are either unfrequent or highly risky for real patients.
Within this research line we investigate, in close relationship with industrial companies in this field, new technologies that may convey advantages over existing systems and devices.
Proyectos
SIMLAP
The SIMLAP project addresses the development of a new low-cost platform that physically simulates the abdomen, oriented to laparoscopic surgery. It also includes a series of advanced software tools and three-dimensional visualization and multimedia content creation and self-learning tools. Until now, only a few centers have sufficient means to acquire current simulators and have a structured medical program to train residents in complex laparoscopic surgical techniques. The project aims to standardize learning through structured training programs accessible and affordable beyond the sophisticated and expensive laparoscopic surgery simulators.
By using new learning techniques such as adaptive learning, integration and learning through social networks (Social Learning), it aims to develop a platform where students can learn and train in different surgical techniques. Since the role of a tutor is key to student training, 'streaming video' technologies are integrated to make a proper tutoring (remote or local). The system will enable connecting the real-time surgery simulator with an educational platform that adapts itself to the student evolution. This platform allos the student to learn a new technique or to practice and improve performance using a Virtual Tutor that guidea the practice and evaluates the performance of specific exercises, by comparing with results from experts.
The objectives of the project include the collection of user requirements and the development of a system that puts together various technologies to obtain a device of high performance and an affordable price, which guarantees a market niche. In the last stage of the project will proceed to the validation of the systems developed through testing by experts in the sector.
Teh project consortium includes Medical Simulator, a leader company in Spain in the field of medical simulation, and two academic centers, the Carlos III University of Madrid and the VICOMTECH center of San Sebastian. The experience of these centers in the field of image processing and e-learning ensures project feasibility.
Funding
Proyecto Plataforma de Simulación Quirúrgica - SimLap. RTC-2014-2811-1. Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad. 2014-2016
Languages