Healthcare training and education have long been in need of modernisation. Changes imposed during the COVID-19 crisis have started to demonstrate the feasibility of integrating advanced immersive technology based into the training process. But it is clear that there is still much work needed for full adoption. To this end, the Centre for Immersive Technologies and the Health Education England’s Technology Enhanced Learning team have brought together clinicians, researchers and industry under the banner of the ‘Immersive Healthcare Collaboration’, to create a set of principles to maiximise the utility of these technologies for training and education. This principles state:
1. The design and development of immersive tools that are driven by an evidence-base in learning requirements, and informed by the science of human behaviour and cognition.
2. Rigorous evaluation prior to, and during implementation of immersive technologies and software into healthcare that is overseen and quality assured by an appropriate body.
3. Principles 1 and 2 are achieved by fostering a culture of collaboration between developers, scientists, industry, healthcare professionals and engagement with learners, patients and the public.
From the lessons learned during the pandemic it is clear that the healthcare system is poised for a training and education delivery reform. By following these principles, we are optimistic that the potential of immersive technologies can be harnessed for the benefit of the healthcare community and the delivery of patient care.
For a copy of this report please contact: immersivetech@leeds.ac.uk