Paramedic students at Edge Hill University may get to treat virtual patients on the way to qualifying

Apr 9 2009 by Ben Turner, Ormskirk Advertiser

STUDENTS could soon be treating virtual patients on the way to becoming qualified paramedics.

Edge Hill University in Ormskirk is exploring the plan after taking part in a pioneering pilot project.

The university is looking at the feasibility of using Second Life – an online world of more than 20 million users who live virtual lives – to bring 3D realism to paramedic training.

Chris Beaumont, assistant director of the university’s business school, an expert in problem solving and e-learning, worked with St George’s University of London and Coventry University.

It saw 25 paramedic students create their own virtual paramedic personas and respond to life-like scenarios – ranging from treating a burns victim to a motorcycle accident victim.

They were kitted out with a virtual medical kit and ‘talked’ to virtual patients via a keyboard to diagnose the injury.

Edge Hill has won a major contract to train paramedics for North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust and will welcome its first 40 students for a new two-year diploma in paramedic practice in September 2009.

And following the positive student feedback, Mr Beaumont said the university was now looking at the possibility of adding a virtual element to its training programme, which includes a mock-up of an ambulance inside the classroom and hi-tech mannequins that can simulate various medical conditions.

He said: “We are investigating the involvement of Second Life and how it can enhance training for paramedics.

“One of the benefits is it gives a realistic feel for what is involved and will show them the effects of giving the wrong treatment, which ultimately could kill a patient.”

But he stressed if the university do adopt the software, it would compliment rather than replace traditional teaching.

“The students liked the extra realism but when asked if they were keen on having this instead of face to face tuition, there was a resounding ‘No’”.

And he stressed the introduction of Second Life into the course was not guaranteed.

“It will need further development,” he said.