VR Technology at the Forefront of Medical Education

How does one teach empathy? Apparently, in the 21st century, and at the Azrieli Faculty of Medicine - also with the help of technology!

Last week, members of the management were presented with a project aimed at supplementing the teaching of the doctor/patient rapport - via the use of VR technology.

They were shown films that were produced especially for the project, heard about the ongoing discussions with the students following the viewing, and listened to the pilot findings of the research accompanying the implementation of the project.

The findings show significant differences among students before and after the viewing, on the Jefferson University Empathy Questionnaire.

Also, a report was presented that discussed answers to open-ended questions asked after the post-viewing questionnaire. Students wrote about the unique contribution of the experience, and the need to repeat this experience throughout their studies, including during their medical internship.

The Dean and management were impressed by the project, which is led by Dr. Yuri Perlitz, head of gynecology and director of the mother and child division at the Tzafon Medical Center and Dr. Nomy Dickman, the dean's advisor for innovative teaching and head of the unit for evaluation and teaching promotion, together with Faculty graduate Dr. Doron Kuhn-Shortz. They emphasized that all students in the clinical rounds should be allowed to participate in it.

Some present admitted that they had their doubts and were skeptical but after the presentation, were convinced of the importance of the project.

"Live" update picture from February 6, 2024:

​