Developing a Virtual Patient for Communication Training

Abstract

<p>Virtual patients {VPs} are interactive computer simulations of clinical scenarios used for medical training, education or assessment. This presentation will discuss formative research on the development of a VP for training communication skills. A communication model is being developed based on input from expert clinicians, extensive literature review, and on theories of communication. A prototype VP has been developed that utilizes speech recognition and a script-mapping mechanism to allow the learner to converse with the VP in a natural manner. Emotion detection will be added to analyze voice characteristics {tone, inflection, etc.} in addition to the content of the spoken words. Affective communication of the learner will be identified based on this information and the VP will respond appropriately. The integration of the communication model, speech recognition and emotion detection will result in a higher fidelity VP. The VP will have human-like conversation skills that are more representative of actual physician-patient interactions. Metrics for communication effectiveness will be developed so that performance can be objectively analyzed. It is expected that the improved fidelity of the VP interaction will significantly improve the training of communication and interpersonal skills for health care providers. This research is the first phase of a long-term goal to develop a completely immersive, longitudinal surgical scenario utilizing different forms of medical simulation including computer-based VPs, surgical simulators with haptic controls, highfidelity mannequins and virtual environments.</p><p>This presentation occurred at the Wright State University Campus-Wide Celebration of Research, Scholarship and Creative Activities on April 16, 2010</p>